Washington insiders were stunned this week when Trump announced his choice for U.S. Attorney in the Eastern District of Virginia one of the Justice Department’s most powerful posts. His pick: Lindsey Halligan, a lawyer who rose to prominence defending Trump during the FBI’s search of Mar-a-Lago.

The Eastern District of Virginia handles some of the nation’s most sensitive cases: espionage, terrorism, and high-level corruption. It’s often nicknamed the “rocket docket” because of how quickly cases move. Now, Trump’s former personal attorney will be leading it.

To Trump’s supporters, Halligan is a natural choice. They see her as loyal, sharp, and unafraid of going toe-to-toe with powerful institutions. But critics say this appointment represents a dangerous blending of personal loyalty and public duty. Halligan’s direct role in Trump’s own legal battles has many worried that prosecutions could become politicized under her leadership.

The Justice Department has long been seen as a pillar of independence, even during times of political upheaval. By elevating Halligan, Trump is sending a clear message: the DOJ will reflect his priorities and his inner circle.

How Halligan manages this powerful office could have ripple effects far beyond Virginia. It may test whether the nation’s justice system can maintain independence when its leaders are chosen more for loyalty than for impartiality.