Federal Judge Blocks President Trump from Firing Court-Appointed US Attorneys

El Paso, TX, October 1, 2026 — A federal judge in Washington state has issued a ruling that restricts President Trump’s authority to remove United States attorneys appointed by federal courts. This judicial decision effectively blocks the dismissal of US attorneys who receive their appointment directly from the court system.

The ruling came in response to a specific case involving Roger Rogoff, the US attorney for Seattle. Rogoff had been appointed to his position by the court. However, his tenure was exceptionally brief, as he was reportedly fired within an hour of his appointment. The court’s intervention aims to prevent such swift removals for court-appointed officials.

The details surrounding the specific federal judge who made the ruling, the exact date of the decision, and the precise legal reasoning behind the judgment were not immediately available. The ruling specifically addresses the status of US attorneys appointed by federal courts, distinguishing them from those appointed through other presidential nomination processes.

This legal development could have significant implications for the appointment and dismissal of federal prosecutors. The case highlights a potential conflict or distinction in how US attorneys are appointed and the extent of executive authority over these positions when appointed by the judiciary.

The circumstances of Roger Rogoff’s rapid dismissal following his court appointment underscore the specific situation that led to this judicial review. Further information regarding the legal grounds for the judge’s decision and its broader impact on the federal justice system is anticipated.

Story summarized from the original created by CNN Newsource on kvia.com, see more information here.

Media gallery