Federal Judge Disqualifies Lindsay Halligan — Indictments Against Letitia James and James Comey Dismissed in Stunning Courtroom Twist

“And we’re back, y’all.”
That’s how the broadcast opened — with the same confident energy the show brings every day — but this time, the tone carried something heavier. After weeks of speculation, teases, and legal rumblings, the moment finally arrived: Lindsay Halligan has been officially disqualified as a U.S. attorney, and the indictments she brought forward against former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James have been dismissed.

Halligan’s appointment, according to the judge, was improperly executed under federal appointment rules — a ruling that instantly derailed two high-profile cases and triggered a political firestorm across social media.

But the story doesn’t end there.

The Disqualification That Shook the Case

Judge Curry’s order laid out the core issue: the interim U.S. attorney position for the Eastern District of Virginia can only be filled by the district court under statute. The problem? Because all the local judges had recused themselves from this politically sensitive case, a judge from South Carolina was brought in — and ultimately concluded that Halligan’s appointment, carried out under former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi, did not meet the constitutional requirements.

The result:
Halligan is out. The cases are dismissed.

But — and this is where things get complicated — the dismissals were issued without prejudice. Meaning the Justice Department can bring the cases again, as long as they are refiled by a properly appointed prosecutor.

What Happens to James Comey’s Case Now?

Comey’s legal clock is ticking.

His indictment was filed just before the statute of limitations expired. Now that it’s been dismissed, legal experts say the DOJ has six months to refile the charges under federal rules.

If they miss that window, Comey walks away free and clear.

Even if the case returns, Comey’s attorneys are already preparing motions arguing selective and vindictive prosecution — challenges that could further delay or block any future trial.

Letitia James Is in a Different Position

Unlike Comey, James is not pressed up against statutory deadlines.
Her case could simply be re-brought at any time by a correctly appointed U.S. attorney. But procedural chaos within the DOJ — much of it tied to the Bondi-era appointments — could drag this process out for months.

A Major Blow — and a Major Blame Game

According to analysts, the ruling reflects well-established case law. The judge’s conclusion: the presidency cannot repeatedly renew interim appointments indefinitely, effectively bypassing Senate confirmation requirements.

To critics, this misstep falls squarely on Pam Bondi.

“This is Pam Bondi’s fault,” the commentary echoed. “She didn’t follow the correct process — and here we are.”

Legal observers warn that dozens of other prosecutors appointed under the same mechanism may face similar challenges, potentially unraveling a long list of active federal cases.

Political Shockwaves Already Spreading

Before today’s ruling, Comey appeared in court arguing the prosecution was politically motivated — an argument that, for now, becomes irrelevant with the case dismissed.

But other political figures are watching closely.

Reports say California Senator Adam Schiff has already hired a private attorney amid concerns he could face charges next. Critics of the administration fear they may be targeted next, leaving many frustrated that the judge’s opinion on politically selective prosecution will now remain unresolved.

Where Things Stand

✔ Lindsay Halligan — disqualified
✔ Cases against Comey & James — dismissed
✔ DOJ — expected to refile, but facing logistical and legal chaos
✔ Comey — 6-month deadline
✔ Letitia James — no time pressure
✔ Pam Bondi — facing mounting scrutiny

For now, the courtroom battlefield resets — and the political world braces for what comes next.