Jeanine Pirro Leaves Fox News for Role as Interim U.S. Attorney
Jeanine Pirro, well-known co-host of Fox News’ “The Five,” has departed from the network after being appointed as the interim U.S. attorney for Washington, D.C. This transition comes on the heels of an announcement by former President Donald Trump on his social media platform, Truth Social.
Background on the Appointment
Pirro’s new role comes as Ed Martin’s nomination for the permanent position was withdrawn due to concerns from Republican senators regarding his connections to individuals with known sympathies for Nazi ideology, as well as his legal defense of those involved in the January 6 Capitol riots.
Jeanine Pirro’s Career Highlights
At 73, Pirro boasts a rich background in law, having served as a district attorney in Westchester County, New York, and later as a county judge. Her career in television includes hosting her own program on Saturday nights until 2022, after which she joined “The Five,” which has become one of the most-watched shows on cable news.
Fox News’ Standard Practices
As a standard operating procedure, Fox News terminates the contracts of hosts or contributors nominated for government roles. A representative for the network expressed gratitude for Pirro’s contributions, stating, “Jeanine Pirro has been a wonderful addition to ‘The Five’ over the last three years and a longtime beloved host across Fox News Media who contributed greatly to our success throughout her 14-year tenure. We wish her all the best in her new role in Washington.”
Potential Challenges Ahead
Pirro’s nomination will require confirmation by the Senate and is not without complications. She is currently involved in a defamation lawsuit filed against Fox News by Smartmatic, a voting software company. The lawsuit, amounting to $2.7 billion, claims that Pirro spread false conspiracy theories regarding the company’s involvement in the 2020 presidential election. Fox News has responded in court, arguing that its reporting is protected under the First Amendment and that Smartmatic has not been harmed by its coverage.
Legacy at Fox News
Pirro’s time on “The Five” has coincided with a surge in the show’s popularity, where she has shared hosting duties with prominent figures like Jessica Tarlov, Jesse Watters, Dana Perino, and Greg Gutfeld. This collaborative effort has further solidified the show’s position as a leader in cable news viewership.