A federal judge has disqualified Bill Essayli, the acting United States Attorney in Los Angeles, ruling that he was unlawfully serving in the role. The decision, issued by Judge J. Michael Seabright of the Federal District Court in Hawaii, is a significant setback for the Trump administration’s strategy of bypassing congressional approval for federal prosecutors.
Despite the ruling, Essayli will remain as the office’s top deputy.
The Central District of California, the nation’s largest judicial district, now faces leadership uncertainty. The judge’s decision highlights ongoing legal challenges to federal appointments made by the Trump administration. According to The New York Times, Essayli, a former state assemblyman and Trump ally, was appointed on an interim basis, but his term expired after 120 days. Attorney General Pam Bondi attempted to extend his tenure, which the court found violated federal appointment laws.
This ruling is part of a broader pattern, as Politico reports that similar disqualifications have occurred in New Jersey and Nevada. The disqualification does not affect ongoing cases, as indictments signed by other legally appointed prosecutors remain valid.
The Department of Justice has not commented on the ruling, citing ongoing litigation. Essayli, however, stated on social media that he will continue to serve as the highest-ranking official in the office, despite not holding the title of U.S. Attorney. The case is expected to be appealed.
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