Summary
President Donald Trump was recorded on a hot mic expressing frustration about his inability to appoint U.S. attorneys. He blames both Republicans and a Senate tradition for blocking his nominations.
Key Facts
- President Trump was recorded speaking about difficulties in appointing U.S. attorneys.
- The recording was shared widely online.
- Trump mentioned that his appointees' terms have expired without confirmation.
- Alina Habba, Trump's former personal lawyer, resigned as U.S. attorney for New Jersey.
- Her nomination was opposed by New Jersey Senators Cory Booker and Andy Kim, who are Democrats.
- Trump criticized Senator Chuck Grassley and the "blue slip" tradition for allowing Democratic senators to block his picks.
- The "blue slip" tradition gives home-state senators the power to veto U.S. attorney nominations.
