Alina Habba’s journey from a New Jersey-based attorney to a prominent figure in Donald Trump’s inner circle and now, Counselor to the President, has been nothing short of meteoric. Her unwavering loyalty and fierce defense of Trump throughout numerous legal battles have earned her the trust and admiration of the former and future president. Born to Chaldean Catholic Iraqi immigrant parents, Habba’s background as a first-generation Arab American woman and her devout Catholic faith have shaped her worldview and fueled her dedication to fighting what she perceives as far-left corruption. Her legal career began with a focus on cases involving negligent nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, and she quickly gained recognition, earning accolades such as being listed among Super Lawyers Rising Stars and the “Top 100 Lawyers in America.” Her commitment to service extends beyond the courtroom, as she has also supported various charitable causes, including one benefiting pregnant homeless women.
Habba’s entrance into the Trump orbit began in 2021 when she was hired to handle a deluge of legal challenges facing the former president in the lead-up to the 2024 election. She quickly became a key figure in Trump’s legal team, serving as his legal spokesperson and trusted advisor. One of her initial high-profile cases involved suing Trump’s niece, Mary Trump, and the New York Times over the publication of his tax records. Her legal victories for Trump include the dismissal of a defamation suit by former “Apprentice” contestant Summer Zervos and a case related to alleged fraudulent marketing practices. She also secured a win at the Supreme Court, which dismissed an appeal by Michael Cohen, Trump’s former lawyer, seeking to revive a lawsuit against him. These successes solidified her position as a formidable advocate for Trump.
Habba’s prominence on the national stage grew significantly during Trump’s legal battles with E. Jean Carroll, who accused him of sexual assault and defamation. While Trump vehemently denied the allegations, a jury ultimately found him liable for sexual abuse and defamation in the second of two lawsuits filed by Carroll. Habba, who represented Trump in the second case, strongly criticized the verdict, highlighting her unwavering support for the former president and her belief that the case represented a miscarriage of justice. She characterized the proceedings as a politically motivated attack and a violation of the justice system. Her impassioned defense of Trump during this highly publicized case further cemented her reputation as a staunch ally.
Another major legal battle Habba spearheaded for Trump was against New York Attorney General Letitia James’ civil fraud suit. This case, which James refused to dismiss even after Trump’s electoral victory, alleged that Trump and his organization had falsely valued assets for financial gain. Habba vehemently defended Trump, both inside and outside the courtroom, accusing James of conducting a politically motivated “witch hunt” and arguing that she was improperly using consumer fraud laws to target private businesses. While a judge ruled against Trump in this case, Habba’s relentless defense underscored her commitment to protecting her client’s interests.
The announcement of Habba’s appointment as Counselor to the President has been met with enthusiasm from Trump’s supporters, who praise her unwavering dedication and fierce advocacy. Her emotional speech at the Republican National Convention, delivered shortly after Trump’s first assassination attempt, resonated deeply with many, particularly her declaration of personal friendship with the former president. In this speech, she highlighted Trump’s positive impact on various communities, describing him as a champion of the Jewish faith to her husband’s family, a mentor to her Iraqi parents, and a personal friend to her. This heartfelt address further solidified her connection with Trump’s base and showcased her ability to connect with audiences on a personal level.
As Counselor to the President, Habba is expected to play a crucial role in advising Trump on all legal matters related to the presidency and the White House. This position, previously held by Kellyanne Conway during Trump’s first term, carries significant responsibility and influence. Habba has expressed her commitment to serving the country and her readiness to tackle the challenges facing the nation. Her focus on “fixing” the country aligns with Trump’s campaign promises and suggests that she will be a key player in shaping the administration’s agenda. Her prior experience battling legal challenges alongside Trump and her deep understanding of his priorities position her to be a powerful force in the new administration.
