What To Know About Alina Habba, Trump’s Pick For Counselor To The President

Alina Habba is a New Jersey-based attorney who has played a significant role in defending Donald Trump in various legal battles. She gained prominence as part of Trump’s legal team, representing him in high-profile cases, including a civil fraud trial and defamation lawsuits. Her unwavering loyalty and aggressive courtroom style have solidified her place as one of Trump’s trusted allies.

Trump has now appointed Habba as counselor to the president in his administration, a role that will place her at the heart of critical decision-making and ethical considerations.

Alina Habba’s Role in Trump’s Legal Defense

Habba joined Trump’s legal team in 2021, representing him in several legal disputes. Notably, she defended Trump in:

• E. Jean Carroll’s Defamation Case: Habba represented Trump during this trial, where a jury ordered Trump to pay $83 million in damages for defamatory statements. Her courtroom tactics were criticized by the judge, who accused her of undermining procedural rules.
• Civil Fraud Trial: Habba also defended Trump in a fraud case brought by New York’s Attorney General. The court ruled against Trump, ordering him to pay over $350 million for fraudulent asset valuations.

Despite significant courtroom losses, Habba has been a vocal advocate for Trump, frequently appearing in media and at campaign events to criticize the legal system, which she and Trump claim is politically biased.

Why Did Trump Choose Alina Habba?

In a statement announcing her appointment, Trump praised Habba’s loyalty and resilience. “She has been unwavering in her loyalty and unmatched in her resolve,” Trump said, adding that few people understand the challenges of fighting a legal system he views as weaponized.

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Habba’s appointment reflects Trump’s tendency to reward close allies who align with his views. Her new role as counselor to the president will involve overseeing legal and ethical matters in his administration, including financial disclosures and potential conflicts of interest.

Alina Habba’s Background

Habba was born to Iraqi Chaldean Catholic parents who fled to the U.S. in the 1980s. She earned her law degree from Widener University Delaware Law School and began her legal career in New Jersey.

Before representing Trump, Habba’s legal work primarily focused on business and real estate litigation. She met Trump at his Bedminster golf club, where she is a member. In 2021, she started working for Trump, representing him in cases against The New York Times and his niece, Mary Trump.

Controversies Surrounding Alina Habba

Habba’s legal career with Trump has been marked by controversies, including:

• Sanctions and Criticism: A federal court sanctioned Habba and Trump nearly $1 million for filing frivolous lawsuits. Judges have reprimanded her for courtroom behavior, which some have called overly theatrical.
• Settling Allegations: In August, Habba quietly settled a lawsuit with a former Bedminster golf club employee who alleged she was pressured into signing a non-disclosure agreement related to workplace harassment.

Despite these controversies, Habba has remained loyal to Trump, often serving as a spokesperson during his legal and political battles.

What’s Next for Alina Habba?

Habba describes her upcoming role as “the honor of my life.” As counselor to the president, she will manage ethical and legal matters within the administration. Her appointment highlights the growing influence of Trump’s legal team in shaping his administration.

Habba’s career reflects the complexities of navigating high-profile legal cases while maintaining a strong public presence. Whether her controversial past will impact her role remains to be seen, but her loyalty to Trump continues to define her career trajectory.