A Judge Says Stop the Pretend Game: Trump's Picked Prosecutor Can't Use Her Title

Key Points:

• Judge David Novak, appointed by Trump, orders Lindsey Halligan to stop using the title "U.S. Attorney."
• Halligan's appointment deemed illegal by a court, Novak compares continued use of title to a "pretend game."
• Warning issued: disciplinary action may follow if title is used in court.

Background

• Halligan's Cases:
• Involved in criminal cases against former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James.
• Cases dismissed in November by Judge Cameron McGowan Currie, citing illegal appointment.

• Legal Issue:
• Federal law states U.S. Attorneys can only serve one 120-day interim period.
• Justice Department appeals Currie's ruling but does not request a pause on the order.
• Department argues the ruling applies only to the Comey and James cases, not others.

Courtroom Tensions

• Novak's Criticism:

• Describes the department's recent filing as disrespectful and inappropriate.

• Replacement Search:
• Chief judge seeks a replacement for Halligan.
• Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche hints Trump may fire any court-appointed replacement.

Ongoing Conflict

• Dispute highlights tension between the Trump administration and Virginia federal judges.
• Focus on the legality of Halligan's appointment and the cases she pursued.