Judge bars Trump-aligned prosecutor from two cases, ruling his title change illegal

Key points

• Judge J. Michael Seabright ruled Essayli is a 'de facto' US attorney despite lacking Senate confirmation.
• The ruling bars Essayli from overseeing cases against Jaime Hector Ramirez and Tu Anh Tran.
• The decision does not take effect immediately as the Justice Department seeks a stay pending appeal.
• Essayli claims the President has the right to select supervisors within the Justice Department.
• The ruling follows a 9th Circuit decision that invalidated a similar arrangement for a Nevada prosecutor.

Background

This dispute is part of a broader legal challenge against the Trump administration's efforts to install loyalist prosecutors without Senate confirmation. Recent rulings have reinstated court-appointed attorneys in Seattle and ordered the reinstatement of Maurene Comey after illegal firings. In December 2025, Alina Habba was similarly disqualified from the top prosecutor role in New Jersey, though she remained a senior adviser at the Justice Department.

How outlets are covering it

The Guardian and Yahoo emphasize the legal precedent set by the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in Nevada, which ruled that changing titles does not validate unconfirmed appointments. Defense attorney H. Dean Steward called the ruling a victory for the rule of law, accusing the administration of installing minions. Conversely, Essayli and the Justice Department argue that the President and Attorney General have the right to select supervisors and delegate authority. Raw Story highlights ethical concerns, with former prosecutors criticizing Essayli for publicly attacking California Governor Gavin Newsom regarding voter fraud, calling his actions outside his professional lane.

Why it matters

The ruling tests the limits of executive power in appointing federal officials. If upheld, it could force the administration to seek Senate confirmation for all US attorneys or face further disqualifications. It also impacts ongoing prosecutions in California, where Essayli has aggressively targeted immigrants and protesters, potentially altering the legal landscape for federal enforcement in the region.

What to watch

The Justice Department has five business days to request a stay of the disqualification order. If denied, the order takes effect one week later. The administration has asked the Supreme Court to review the related Nevada case, arguing that federal law allows the attorney general to delegate powers to a first assistant. Essayli expects the Supreme Court to ultimately decide his status.