In a significant legal setback for former President Donald Trump, a US federal judge has thrown out high-profile cases against former FBI director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James.
Unlawful Appointment Halts Prosecution
The ruling was delivered on Monday 24 November 2025 by US District Judge Cameron McGowan Currie. The judge found that the prosecutor leading the cases, Lindsey Halligan, had been illegally appointed to her position.
Judge Currie agreed with the defence's argument that Halligan, the US Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, had exceeded the 120-day interim period allowed for her role without receiving the necessary Senate confirmation or judicial approval.
Background of the Controversial Prosecutor
Adding to the controversy, Lindsey Halligan was a former White House aide with no prior experience as a prosecutor before she initiated these high-stakes legal actions. This lack of traditional prosecutorial background was a notable point in the proceedings.
Political Repercussions of the Ruling
This judicial decision directly undermines President Donald Trump's efforts to prosecute his political adversaries through the judicial system. The dismissal represents a major victory for Comey and James and highlights the critical role of proper judicial appointments in the US legal framework.
The cases have now been effectively terminated, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing political and legal battles that have characterised the era.
