Alina Habba Defies Senate Blue Slip Custom as US Attorney Nomination Controversy Escalates
Alina Habba, President Donald Trump’s attorney, is facing mounting pressure from Senate lawmakers over the blue slip tradition, a longstanding practice that has stalled her nomination as U.S. attorney for New Jersey. Habba, who has publicly stated her refusal to be intimidated, is at the heart of a broader debate about the Senate’s role in confirming federal appointments.
The blue slip tradition, which allows home-state senators to signal approval or disapproval of a nominee, has come under scrutiny as Senate Republicans, including Judiciary Committee Chair Chuck Grassley, have defended the practice. Habba, however, argues that the tradition is not legally binding and should not override the executive’s appointment process.
The dispute intensified after a federal judge ruled that Habba’s appointment as acting U.S. attorney for New Jersey was unlawful, prompting her to challenge the Senate’s refusal to allow her an official vote. Both Democratic senators Cory Booker and Andy Kim from New Jersey opposed her nomination, citing concerns over her qualifications and suitability for the role.
Trump, who has consistently criticized the blue slip custom as an obstacle to his judicial and executive appointments, has openly supported Habba’s stance. In a recent post on Truth Social, he accused Senate Democrats of obstructing