Jeanine Pirro, longtime Fox News host and former prosecutor, is once again heading to the courtroom—this time in the heart of the nation’s capital.
From TV Commentator to Washington Prosecutor
President Donald Trump has appointed Judge Jeanine Pirro, 73, as the interim U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia. Trump hailed Pirro as “in a class by herself,” pointing to her distinguished track record of tackling crime.
This move marks a significant change for Pirro, who’s been a familiar face on Fox News since 2006 and, until recently, co-hosted the network’s top-rated show, The Five.
In a statement on Truth Social, Trump didn’t hold back in his praise for Pirro.
“Jeanine is exceptionally qualified for this role,” he said. “She’s seen as one of the best District Attorneys New York has ever had.”
Trump highlighted Pirro’s creation of the first Domestic Violence Bureau in the nation, calling it “a game changer.”
Fox News: ‘A Cherished Host’
Following the announcement of Pirro’s new role, Fox News released a statement applauding her contributions.
“Jeanine Pirro has been an invaluable part of The Five for the past three years,” the network said. “Her work over her 14-year tenure has been instrumental to our success. We wish her the very best in her next chapter in Washington.”
While Pirro hasn’t made a personal statement yet, she did share a congratulatory post from Sergio Gor, Trump’s hiring manager:
“Congratulations Judge Jeanine—soon to make DC Great Again.”
Senate Confirmation Ahead
Although Pirro has been named to the interim position, she still needs to be confirmed by the Senate to formally take office. Trump turned to Pirro after his original nominee, Ed Martin, failed to gain momentum in Congress.
“We’ll be announcing someone else in the next couple days,” Trump hinted earlier this week—hinting that Pirro would be the next pick.
Praise from Republican Leaders
Top Republicans quickly praised Trump’s decision. Senator Lindsey Graham called Pirro’s appointment “exactly the right person at the right time.”
“She has tremendous legal experience, a fierce sense of justice, and a drive to keep law-abiding citizens safe,” Graham posted on X. “Today is not a good day for criminals.”
Senator Thom Tillis echoed that sentiment, calling Pirro “a great choice” with a “storied career.”
From the Courtroom to TV and Back Again
Pirro’s career has been a unique blend of media and law. She was the first woman elected District Attorney in Westchester County, New York, before serving as a judge. She then made the leap to television, hosting Justice with Judge Jeanine on Fox News for over a decade, and joined The Five in 2022.
Now, she’s putting the TV scripts aside and stepping back into legal filings as she prepares to lead one of the country’s most high-profile prosecutorial offices. Washington is abuzz as Judge Jeanine Pirro returns to public service.