Motivating Factors
Several factors motivated the president-elect to appoint attorney Alina Habba to this new position. She has demonstrated her loyalty through various trials and has been a key figure in facilitating his return to the White House. However, there are more reasons for her selection, which can be outlined as follows:
In-Depth Knowledge of Iraq and Its Affairs: The choice of 40-year-old Alina Habba, of Chaldean Iraqi descent, reflects a possible shift towards adopting policies focused on the Middle East, particularly Iraq, following Trump's inauguration in January. Habba belongs to the Chaldean community, the largest Christian sect in Iraq, recognized as an Eastern rite in the Catholic Church. This choice may indicate Trump's intention to exert more pressure and sanctions on Iran through influence in Iraq.
Positive Outlook Toward Trump: Alina Habba has been one of Trump's staunch supporters during his campaign. She accompanied him at numerous campaign events and spent significant time with him at his Mar-a-Lago club following the presidential election. Additionally, she spoke at a rally in Madison Square Garden, New York, in late October, and represented him in an election-related case in New York, showcasing her firm belief in Trump and her capability to support him.
Combining Political, Administrative, and Legal Expertise: Habba possesses diverse experience encompassing political, legal, and administrative roles. She served as Trump's official legal spokesperson and has been a senior advisor for the "MAGA" political action committee since 2021. Recently, she was honored as "Chaldean Woman of the Year" in recognition of her achievements and influence in her field. Currently, she is the managing partner at Habba Madayou & Associates LLP. Prior to establishing this firm, she worked in a mid-sized company providing services to Fortress, contributing to its expansion in Europe. Furthermore, she has extensive legal experience, particularly in commercial real estate, family law, and financial service law, and served as a legal clerk for Judge Eugene Cody in New Jersey.
Trump's Praise for Her as an Advocate for Justice: The president-elect commended Alina Habba on his social platform, Truth Social, referring to her as a "tireless advocate for justice and a fierce defender of the rule of law." He noted her support during many legal battles, highlighting her dedication and courage in facing significant legal challenges, and considered her a role model for first-generation women in law and politics, especially given her Middle Eastern roots.
Trump's Attorney in the Hush Money Case: Habba was part of the legal team defending the president-elect in the hush money case related to the adult film actress in New York and played a key role in averting this charge, which helped strengthen his chances of returning to the White House. Additionally, she was Trump's right hand in various other cases, including those against Hillary Clinton. Trump's appointment of Habba appears to be a form of gratitude for her ongoing support. Nevertheless, her legal and political expertise is undeniable and will assist him in achieving his plans for the Middle East.
Prominent Role in Trump's Defense Team: Alina Habba began her career as an attorney before joining Trump's legal defense team. The former president chose her in 2021 after their meeting at his Bedminster club in New Jersey following his defeat in the 2020 election. This was during a time when the number of lawsuits against Trump was increasing, and Habba emerged as a leading defender since her integration into the team. Among the cases she handled was representing him in a $100 million lawsuit against The New York Times and his niece, Mary Trump. Currently, Habba represents Trump in a civil fraud case in New York.
Support for Trump's Re-Election Bid: Habba held the position of the first counselor for the "MAGA Inc." political action committee, which supports Trump's re-election. She received national praise for her prominent legal role in his team and was considered one of the most fervent advocates for Trump's return to the presidency, openly expressing this through her social media posts. On her recent birthday, she shared a photo with Trump, stating, "I started this year with amazing patriots and the greatest president of all time, number 45, who will soon be number 47." She has been dubbed "the godmother of the president's return to the White House" due to her steadfast belief in Trump and ongoing support.
Friendship with Trump: Alina Habba shares a strong and unique friendship with Trump. This is evident from her emotional responses to him, such as her reaction when he faced an assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania, where she expressed, "I was deeply affected by that, and I believe America sees Trump differently today. I never imagined I'd live this moment and say: this is my friend." She expressed pride in Trump and his resilience in facing challenges and conveyed her happiness at being appointed to her new position, noting her intention to use the opportunity to discuss important issues affecting women across the country.
Acknowledging Loyalty
In conclusion, it appears that president-elect Donald Trump continues to rely on personal relationships in his appointments. His selection of Iraqi attorney Alina Habba reflects a certain form of gratitude for her supportive stance. Habba has been one of the key figures who helped him return to the White House, both through her defense in the hush money case and her continuous support in other legal matters. Furthermore, this appointment may indicate Trump's intent to adopt specific policies towards the Middle East, particularly Iraq, during his upcoming term.
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