Alina Habba’s journey from a New Jersey-based attorney to Counselor to the President under the second Trump administration is a story of unwavering loyalty, fierce advocacy, and a meteoric rise to national prominence. Habba, a first-generation Arab American woman and devout Catholic, first gained national attention in 2021 when she became a key figure in Trump’s legal defense team, battling a multitude of lawsuits and criminal charges leading up to his recent election victory against Vice President Kamala Harris. Her tenacity and commitment to Trump earned her his trust and respect, ultimately leading to her appointment as a key advisor in his upcoming administration. Trump himself praised Habba’s tireless advocacy for justice, unwavering loyalty, and unmatched resolve, highlighting her steadfast support through numerous legal battles and court appearances.
Habba’s legal career began with a focus on cases involving negligent nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic. She quickly gained recognition, earning a place on the Super Lawyers Rising Stars List from 2016 to 2022 and being named one of the “Top 100 Lawyers in America.” Beyond her professional achievements, Habba has also demonstrated a commitment to philanthropy, supporting various charities, including one focused on assisting pregnant homeless women. Her dedication to both her legal career and charitable work reflects her multifaceted approach to service and advocacy.
Habba’s entry into Trump’s legal orbit began with a high-profile lawsuit against his niece, Mary Trump, and the New York Times over the publication of Trump’s tax records. This marked the beginning of her close association with Trump and her emergence as a prominent figure in his legal defense. Her subsequent legal victories for Trump include the dismissal of a defamation suit by former “Apprentice” contestant Summer Zervos, the dismissal of a case related to alleged fraudulent marketing practices, and the Supreme Court’s dismissal of former lawyer Michael Cohen’s appeal in a lawsuit against Trump. These successes solidified her reputation as a skilled litigator and further cemented her position within Trump’s inner circle.
Habba’s national profile grew significantly during the highly publicized E. Jean Carroll cases, where Carroll accused Trump of sexual assault and defamation. Habba joined Trump’s legal team for the second Carroll case, defending him against allegations of rape and defamation stemming from social media posts. Although the jury found Trump liable for sexual abuse and defamation, Habba steadfastly maintained her support for Trump, criticizing the verdict and characterizing the case as a manifestation of the “violation of our justice system.” Her unwavering defense of Trump throughout this controversial case further solidified her image as a loyal and dedicated advocate.
Another prominent case Habba tackled was the civil fraud suit brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James, which alleged that Trump and his organization had falsely valued assets for financial gain. Habba vigorously defended Trump against these allegations both inside and outside the courtroom, accusing James of conducting a politically motivated “witch hunt” against the former president. Despite the court’s ruling against Trump, Habba continued to maintain his innocence and criticize James’ actions. This high-profile case further elevated Habba’s public profile and showcased her willingness to take on powerful opponents.
Looking ahead, Habba’s role as Counselor to the President is expected to focus on a broad range of legal matters related to the office of the president and the White House. She has expressed her commitment to serving the country and working to address the challenges facing the nation. Her previous experience defending Trump against a barrage of legal challenges has positioned her as a key figure in his upcoming administration and a trusted advisor on legal and policy matters. Her journey from a New Jersey lawyer to a prominent figure in the White House underscores her unwavering dedication, legal acumen, and the unique bond she has forged with the former and future president.
