On Thursday, Senate Republicans on the Judiciary Committee advanced Jeanine Pirro’s nomination to become the permanent U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, despite a boycott by all Democratic members. The Democrats walked out of the session, protesting a broader slate of judicial confirmations being pushed through by Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-IA).

Pirro, a former Fox News host and vocal supporter of Donald Trump, was appointed as acting U.S. Attorney in May. Trump praised her as one of New York’s top former district attorneys. However, her nomination faced strong Democratic opposition. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-IL) labeled her a “January 6 apologist” and an “election denialist,” warning she would act as a Trump loyalist rather than an impartial prosecutor.

Republicans defended Pirro’s qualifications, with Sen. Lindsey Graham noting she would focus on tackling crime in Washington, D.C. Meanwhile, Pirro made headlines for suing three board members of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, arguing they defied Trump’s lawful removal. A federal judge ruled against reinstating the members but noted limits on presidential authority over the board.

Democrats also voiced concern over the nomination of Emil Bove to a U.S. Court of Appeals seat, citing past ethics issues and his alleged role in suppressing Epstein-related investigations. They criticized Republicans for rushing confirmations and bypassing standard procedures.

In a related media twist, conservative commentator Megyn Kelly accused MAGA figures like Laura Ingraham of abandoning the Epstein story after Trump labeled it a Democratic “hoax,” accusing them of silencing criticism in lockstep with Trump’s messaging.