Trump Fires Newly Appointed U.S. Attorney Just After Taking Office
On Wednesday, shortly after being sworn in, President Donald Trump dismissed Roger Rogoff, the U.S. attorney for the Western District of Washington. This move heightened the already intense legal and political debate surrounding federal prosecutor appointments.
Rogoff, who had previously served as a judge and federal prosecutor, was appointed under federal law which permits district court judges to appoint interim U.S. attorneys when there is an ongoing vacancy without a Senate-nominated candidate. However, Rogoff’s tenure lasted barely 54 minutes, as Trump quickly replaced him with his preferred choice, Charles Neil Floyd, to maintain control over the Seattle office.
Floyd’s selection aligns with Trump’s policy priorities and management style. The administration views Floyd as an experienced candidate with a strong background in immigration law, having served as an immigration judge and in various roles with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Analysts describe him as a decisive figure, fitting the administration’s agenda in national security and immigration enforcement.
Rogoff arrived at the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Seattle, expecting to meet Floyd, when he received a notification on his phone announcing his firing. Describing the notification, he noted, “It basically said, ‘President Trump, in accordance with his authority, hereby announces that I am removing you from the office of United States Attorney.’” Although he found the firing disappointing, he was not entirely surprised.
The Trump administration promptly defended the decision. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche pointed to a breakdown in traditional consultations between district judges and the administration, asserting that Rogoff’s removal was necessary to uphold the executive branch’s authority. Blanche emphasized that while temporary appointments exist, the appointees must align with the president’s policies.
This swift dismissal incited backlash from Democratic lawmakers. Senator Patty Murray criticized the administration, defending Rogoff’s qualifications and accusing Trump of attempting to place compliant figures in positions of power. She expressed concern over this trend as part of a broader agenda to undermine judicial integrity.
In response, Rogoff stood by his acceptance of the appointment, emphasizing the respect he held for the judges who selected him. He called the role of U.S. attorney “the best job a prosecutor can have” and expressed pride in his career achievements.
Rogoff, alongside his legal team, is now contemplating legal action against the Trump administration, with intentions to challenge the termination in court. “We are currently pursuing legal action,” he stated, indicating preparations for potential litigation against the Department of Justice.
