On Wednesday, the Trump White House issued termination notices to several U.S. Attorneys across the country who had been appointed by Democratic President Joe Biden, according to an email excerpt reviewed by Reuters.
In the email, the White House’s deputy director for the Office of Presidential Personnel informed recipients: “At the direction of President Donald J. Trump, I am writing to inform you that your position as U.S. Attorney is terminated, effective immediately.”
While it is standard for U.S. Attorneys to leave their positions following a change in presidential administration, Justice Department lawyers note that the usual process involves the incoming administration requesting resignations rather than issuing abrupt termination letters.
By Wednesday, more than two dozen Biden-appointed U.S. Attorneys were still serving. However, several had departed their roles, including those in Seattle and Maryland, though it was unclear if all had received formal termination notices. As of Thursday, at least three remained in office.
The White House declined to comment, and the U.S. Department of Justice did not respond to multiple requests for clarification.
Among those affected was San Diego-based U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath, who was informed of her dismissal in a message from the White House that also expressed gratitude for her service.
Shortly after the notices were issued, Maryland-based U.S. Attorney Erek Barron sent a farewell email to his office, stating, “It has been an honor to lead such a talented and dedicated team.” Barron later confirmed his departure in a LinkedIn post on Thursday.
Ismail Ramsey, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of California, also stepped down, with a spokesperson stating he had “concluded his leadership” of the office.
Seattle-based U.S. Attorney Tessa Gorman, initially appointed on an interim basis by former U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland and later by judges in the Western District of Washington, also left at the president’s request, according to a spokesperson.
Dena King, the Biden-appointed U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina, announced her departure late Wednesday as well.
