Trump doubles down on Alina Habba's nomination for U.S. attorney in New Jersey after federal judges declined to extend her interim term, creating confusion over who will assume the role.

The Trump administration believes a complex procedural maneuver will allow the president’s former personal lawyer to remain in the position.

The state's district judges voted to replace Alina Habba with her top assistant, who was ousted by the Justice Department hours later.

Alina Habba, President Trump’s choice to run the U.S. attorney’s office in New Jersey, has pursued investigations against Democrats. Her tenure has damaged morale inside the office.

WASHINGTON >> President Donald Trump’s former personal lawyer, Alina Habba, said today that she would seek to remain as the top federal prosecutor in New Jersey despite a judicial decision this week not to extend her appointment.