Jeanine Pirro takes oath as interim U.S. attorney for D.C., leaving Fox News to defend Trump administration and prosecute local cases.

Pirro Leaves Broadcasting to Return to the Courtroom

Former judge and longtime television personality Jeanine Pirro was sworn in Thursday as interim United States Attorney for the District of Columbia. The appointment follows an announcement last week by President Donald Trump, who praised Pirro’s qualifications and experience in both law and media.

Pirro, 73, will now lead a team of federal attorneys in prosecuting crimes in Washington, D.C., and defending the Trump administration in federal court. Her new role puts her at the center of legal proceedings in the nation’s capital during a period of heightened political scrutiny and legal activity.

“Congratulations Judge Jeanine who will soon make DC Great Again!” wrote Sergi Gor, director of the White House Office of Presidential Personnel, in a post on social media.

President Trump also praised Pirro in his official announcement, calling her “one of the Top District Attorneys in the History of the State of New York.” He added, “She is in a class by herself.”

The move marks a significant career shift for Pirro, who leaves behind a prominent broadcasting career at Fox News. Pirro joined the network in 2006 and became a well-known fixture through her program “Justice with Judge Jeanine.” Most recently, she was a co-host on “The Five,” one of the highest-rated shows on cable news.

In a statement, FOX News Media acknowledged her departure: “Jeanine Pirro has been a wonderful addition to The Five over the last three years and a longtime beloved host across FOX News Media who contributed greatly to our success throughout her 14-year tenure. We wish her all the best in her new role in Washington.”

Throughout her legal career, Pirro served as assistant district attorney and then district attorney for Westchester County, New York, becoming the first woman to serve as a judge in Westchester County Court. Her transition from the courtroom to the television studio and now back to public service underscores her prominence in both legal and political spheres.

In a related announcement, Trump also appointed Ed Martin, who previously served as interim U.S. attorney for D.C., to new roles within the Department of Justice. Martin will now serve as Director of the Weaponization Working Group, Associate Deputy Attorney General, and Pardon Attorney.

Pirro’s appointment is expected to bring a prominent legal voice to the administration’s defense team as it faces continued legal and legislative challenges. Her courtroom experience and national profile position her as a high-impact figure in the capital’s legal landscape.