Jeanine Pirro sworn in as interim U.S. attorney for Washington, D.C

Jeanine Pirro sworn in as interim U.S. attorney for Washington, D.C.

Former judge and Fox News host takes prosecutorial helm in nation’s capital

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Jeanine Pirro, a former New York judge and longtime television personality, was sworn in Thursday as the interim U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, marking a high-profile shift from cable news to a central legal post in the Trump administration.

The appointment places Pirro, 73, at the head of the largest U.S. Attorney’s Office in the country, tasked with prosecuting federal offenses and handling local crimes in the capital. She will also be responsible for defending the administration in politically sensitive legal matters as the 2024 election cycle intensifies.

President Donald Trump announced her appointment last week via social media, praising her prosecutorial record and media savvy.

“Jeanine is incredibly well qualified for this position, and is considered one of the Top District Attorneys in the History of the State of New York. She is in a class by herself,” Trump wrote. “Congratulations Jeanine!”

From Westchester courtrooms to cable news, and now to D.C.

Pirro’s appointment brings her legal career full circle. She began as an assistant district attorney in Westchester County, New York, later becoming the county's first female judge and district attorney. Her tough-on-crime approach and high-profile prosecutions earned her national attention.

In 2006, she joined Fox News Channel, where she became a household name through her weekend program Justice with Judge Jeanine, known for fiery monologues and strong support for Trump. She later became a co-host of The Five, a ratings powerhouse on cable news.

Her departure from Fox News was announced Thursday in a statement from the network, which thanked her for her 14-year tenure.

“Jeanine Pirro has been a wonderful addition to The Five and a longtime beloved host across FOX News Media,” the statement read. “We wish her all the best in her new role in Washington.”

A political and legal flashpoint

The U.S. Attorney for D.C. is a powerful position, often involved in cases with national political implications. Pirro will likely oversee high-profile investigations and prosecutions that could touch on matters related to January 6, political corruption, or ongoing policy disputes between the Trump White House and its critics.

Her appointment comes at a time of heightened scrutiny over the independence of the Justice Department, particularly following Trump’s announcement that former interim D.C. U.S. attorney Ed Martin will now serve as Director of the Weaponization Working Group, Associate Deputy Attorney General, and Pardon Attorney — a newly elevated role within DOJ leadership.

Critics are likely to challenge Pirro’s impartiality due to her close association with Trump and outspoken political commentary, but supporters argue her legal credentials and courtroom experience outweigh those concerns.

Reactions from the administration

Sergi Gor, director of the White House Office of Presidential Personnel, congratulated Pirro on social media, writing:

“Congratulations ⁦Judge Jeanine⁩ who will soon make DC Great Again!”

In recent years, the D.C. U.S. Attorney’s Office has played a pivotal role in investigations ranging from Capitol riot prosecutions to matters involving political protests, public corruption, and national security. Pirro's leadership is expected to bring both legal muscle and media visibility to the post.

What’s next for “The Five”

Fox News will rotate a lineup of contributors and anchors to fill Pirro’s seat on The Five until a permanent replacement is named. The show remains one of the most influential platforms on the network and a key voice in shaping conservative opinion.

Pirro is expected to begin work immediately, with a formal nomination to follow if the Trump administration seeks Senate confirmation.

Stay tuned to The Horizons Times for continuing updates on key appointments in the Trump administration and developments within the U.S. Department of Justice.