US President Donald Trump has sworn in longtime ally and former Fox News host Judge Jeanine Pirro as the interim US attorney for Washington, DC, in a ceremony marked by praise and a kiss on the head from the ex-president.
Pirro, a prominent conservative media personality and former judge, was inducted into the role during an Oval Office ceremony on Wednesday.
Trump referred to Pirro as “an incredible person, an incredible woman” and described the appointment as “a big deal.”
“She’s been a tireless warrior,” Trump said while addressing attendees from the podium.
Pirro, taking to the podium herself, pledged to crack down on violent crime and restore order in the US capital.
“Violence will be addressed directly with the appropriate punishment, and this city will again become a shining city on a hill in an America that President Trump has promised to make great again and will make safe again,” she declared.
Referencing the recent killing of two Israeli embassy staff members near the capital’s Jewish Museum, Pirro said such acts would be met with a “just accounting.”
“My voice should be heard loud and clear,” she said. “No more, no more tolerance of hatred. No more mercy for criminals.”
Pirro joined Fox News in 2006, initially hosting Justice with Judge Jeanine for over a decade before co-hosting The Five. She departed the network following her new appointment by Trump earlier this month.
Fox News Media acknowledged her departure with a statement praising her contributions over 14 years, calling her a “longtime beloved host” and wishing her well in Washington.
She replaces Ed Martin, Trump’s prior nominee for the interim post, who reportedly lost favour among Republicans due to his defence of individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riots.
Pirro has an extensive background in law and prosecution, having served as both an assistant district attorney and the first female district attorney in Westchester County, New York. She was also the first woman to serve as a judge in Westchester County Court.
Trump expressed confidence in her ability to take on the role, stating: “I have no doubt she will be an exceptional US attorney.”
“She will restore public safety in our nation’s capital, break up vicious street gangs and criminal networks, and ensure equal justice under the law,” he added.
