Mon Dec 09 02:22:45 UTC 2024: ## Trump Appoints Hush Money Defense Attorney as Counselor to the President
**FORT LAUDERDALE, Florida —** President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Alina Habba, one of his attorneys in the New York hush money case, as Counselor to the President. Ms. Habba, 40, defended Mr. Trump earlier this year and served as his legal spokesperson. The announcement, made on Truth Social, highlights Mr. Trump’s deep loyalty to Ms. Habba, who he praised for her unwavering support throughout his legal battles.
Mr. Trump’s appointment comes after his conviction on 34 felony charges related to hush money payments made during the 2016 election. This marks the first time a former U.S. President has been convicted of felony crimes.
Ms. Habba, who is of Chaldean Iraqi descent, was a frequent presence on the campaign trail and addressed supporters at a rally in Madison Square Garden. The Counselor to the President position was previously held by Kellyanne Conway during Mr. Trump’s first term.
In related news, Mr. Trump also announced the appointment of former staffer Michael Anton as director of policy planning at the State Department and Michael Needham, former Chief of Staff for Senator Marco Rubio, as Counselor of the State Department. Senator Rubio has been chosen by Mr. Trump as the next Secretary of State.
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