In a significant legal ruling, a federal judge determined that a top U.S. attorney has been “unlawfully serving” in his role. This decision impacts the Central District of California, where Bill Essayli has held the acting prosecutor position since April, exceeding the legal limit for temporary appointments. District Judge J. Michael Seabright ruled that Essayli should have stepped down by July 31, marking the third disqualification of a Trump loyalist in a top prosecutor role.
Details of the Ruling
Judge Seabright’s order stated that Essayli’s tenure as acting U.S. attorney exceeded the 120-day limit without Senate confirmation. However, the judge allowed him to continue his work under the title of “first assistant” U.S. attorney. This stipulation enables him to oversee prosecutions in California’s most populous district but explicitly bars him from performing full duties as the U.S. attorney.
Response from Bill Essayli
Despite the ruling, Essayli remains defiant. In a post on X, he proclaimed, “Nothing is changing,” asserting his ongoing role as the central federal prosecutor in Los Angeles.
Legal Context and Implications
- This ruling is part of a broader legal scrutiny that has affected several Trump allies.
- Other notable figures disqualified include Alina Habba and Sigal Chattah, both facing legal barriers in New Jersey and Nevada.
- Ryan Ellison, the acting U.S. attorney for New Mexico, is also likely to confront similar challenges.
Concerns have been raised about the role of acting U.S. attorneys circumventing Senate confirmations. The administration has utilized a strategy wherein officials resign just before their temporary roles expire, allowing them to retain power through new appointments.
Future Developments
As this legal battle unfolds, judges are assessing the legitimacy of indictments signed during these unlawful tenures. Upcoming hearings include arguments focused on Lindsey Halligan, another Trump attorney, with a scheduled hearing on November 13, which may impact ongoing cases against figures such as former FBI director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James.
These developments reflect the continuing scrutiny surrounding appointments of federal prosecutors and the legal ramifications of their actions during these controversial tenures. El-Balad will provide further updates as the situation evolves.
