First, Donald Trump nominated Lindsey Halligan. She will succeed Erik S. Siebert as the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. This announcement comes on the heels of Siebert’s recent resignation. Trump himself claimed that it was indeed a firing and not just a voluntary departure. Halligan for many years has served as special assistant to the president and senior associate staff secretary. She is best known for leading the push for diversity and inclusion at the Smithsonian museums.
Erik S. Siebert is currently looking into allegations of mortgage fraud by New York Attorney General Letitia James. James had sued Trump civilly in 2022. The lawsuit alleged that Trump falsely inflated the value of his assets on loan applications. A fine of up to $8900, son, levied against him was subsequently overturned. Trump’s legal difficulties have included two impeachments and five indictments, adding to the scrutiny around his administration’s actions.
Trump’s remarks about Siebert’s resignation further illustrate the incoming president’s troubled dealings with the current legal affairs. He stated, “We can’t delay any longer, it’s killing our reputation and credibility. They impeached me twice, and indicted me (5 times!), OVER NOTHING. JUSTICE MUST BE SERVED, NOW!!!” And now, being denied justice, he’s outraged by the process. He feels in turn that it has been thoroughly weaponized against him and his supporters.
With Halligan at the helm, Trump has the right idea, formulating his administration on a pledge to restore justice and accountability. He stated, “She will be Fair, Smart, and will provide, desperately needed, JUSTICE FOR ALL!” The nomination indicates Trump’s aim to shift the focus of the U.S. Attorney’s office toward his perceived injustices and political adversaries.
In Trump’s case, he sought to stand out by emphasizing his commitment to justice reform. He warned about long-term implications of appointing a new U.S. Attorney in Virginia who would be backed by Democrats. He stated, “We almost put in a Democrat supported U.S. Attorney, in Virginia, with a really bad Republican past.”
Looks like Halligan is looking forward to her new challenges and opportunities. Now, we’ll need to see whether her leadership makes a difference as New York foundations the continuing investigation and legal proceeding against Trump and his subordinates.