President Donald Trump has nominated Emil Bove, his former personal attorney, to serve as a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit.
The nomination comes amid controversy, as Bove faces a misconduct complaint related to his role in handling criminal charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams.
What Happened
On May 28, 2025, Trump announced on Truth Social that Emil Bove would be nominated for the federal appellate judgeship. The Third Circuit covers Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and the Virgin Islands. Trump praised Bove as “SMART, TOUGH, and respected by everyone,” emphasizing Bove’s commitment to “MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN.”
Bove served as one of Trump’s defense attorneys during his criminal trial in New York last year. More recently, Bove was acting deputy attorney general at the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) before Trump nominated Todd Blanche for that role.
Key Details
- Bove directed DOJ prosecutors to drop federal fraud and bribery charges against Mayor Eric Adams.
- Adams was accused of receiving gifts in exchange for political favors, which he denied.
- Bove’s memo cited concerns that continuing the prosecution would hinder Adams’ efforts on immigration and violent crime.
- Several DOJ prosecutors resigned in protest, accusing Bove of political interference.
- Democratic senators filed a formal misconduct complaint against Bove with the New York State Bar, alleging abuse of power and violations of professional ethics.
Reactions or Statements
Multiple DOJ prosecutors condemned Bove’s directive as a “quid pro quo,” implying leniency for Adams in exchange for support of Trump’s immigration policies. Former U.S. Attorney Danielle Sassoon stated Bove appeared to offer leniency based solely on Adams’ political usefulness.
Democrats in the Senate criticized the nomination, highlighting the pending misconduct complaint. However, with Republicans holding a Senate majority, Bove’s confirmation is still considered likely.
Investigation or What’s Next
- Bove’s nomination must be confirmed by the Senate before he can take the judgeship.
- The misconduct complaint filed in March by Democratic senators is under review by the New York State Bar.
- The Senate confirmation process may face delays or opposition due to Bove’s controversial DOJ tenure.
- Bove previously faced an internal inquiry at the Southern District of New York for his management style, which recommended a demotion that was never executed.
- He remains influential in DOJ policy, especially on immigration matters.
FAQs
Q1: Who is Emil Bove?
A1: Emil Bove is a former assistant U.S. attorney and one of President Trump’s personal lawyers. He has served in senior roles at the DOJ, including acting deputy attorney general.
Q2: What charges were dropped against Mayor Eric Adams?
A2: Federal fraud and bribery charges related to alleged political favors in exchange for gifts.
Q3: Why are prosecutors resigning over Bove’s actions?
A3: They believe Bove improperly influenced legal proceedings for political reasons, undermining the justice process.
Q4: What does the misconduct complaint allege?
A4: That Bove abused his position by pressuring prosecutors to drop charges, violating professional conduct rules.
Q5: What is the likelihood of Bove’s confirmation?
A5: Despite Democratic opposition, the Republican Senate majority makes confirmation likely.
Summary / Final Takeaway
President Trump’s nomination of Emil Bove to the Third Circuit Court highlights ongoing tensions between political influence and judicial appointments.
Bove’s controversial DOJ tenure and the misconduct complaint add complexity to the Senate confirmation process. His elevation would continue Trump’s pattern of promoting former personal attorneys to significant federal roles.
