Judge blocks Trump's firing of top federal prosecutor in Seattle and restores him as U.S. attorney
A federal judge has blocked President Trump's attempt to fire U.S. Attorney Roger Rogoff, ruling that the president cannot unilaterally remove a prosecutor appointed by a district court. The Justice Department plans to appeal the decision, which centers on the constitutional balance of power regarding judicial appointments.
Why it matters
This ruling challenges executive authority over federal law enforcement appointments and sets a significant legal precedent for judicial independence.
Washington — A federal judge on Thursday blocked President Trump's firing of Roger Rogoff from his post as the top federal prosecutor in Seattle, finding the president cannot unilaterally remove a U.S. attorney who has been tapped to the post by a district court.U.S. District Judge Stanley Bastian delivered his decision from the bench at the end of a hearing, during which he agreed to grant Rogoff's request to reinstate him until the Senate confirms a replacement. Mr. Trump nominated Simon Peter Serrano to the position of U.S. attorney in Seattle last month.Bastian ruled that Rogoff is the U.S. attorney in the Western District of Washington and has been the "rightful holder of that office" since July 15, when the federal district judges in the region installed him to the role and he took his oath of office. Mr.
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