The White House under President Donald Trump sent termination notices to several U.S. Attorneys who had been appointed during the administration of former President Joe Biden. The move appears to be part of a broader effort to ensure that top federal prosecutors are aligned with the priorities of the new administration.
According to reports, the notices stated that, by direction of President Trump, the recipients’ positions as U.S. Attorneys were terminated effective immediately. While changes in U.S. Attorneys are common after a new president takes office, current and former Justice Department officials noted that incoming administrations usually request resignations rather than issuing abrupt dismissal letters.
Several Biden-era prosecutors have already departed their posts. Among them was Tara McGrath in San Diego, whose office confirmed she had received a termination notice. Erek Barron also announced his departure, thanking staff and calling it an honor to lead the office. In California, Ismail Ramsey likewise stepped down.
Other departures included Tessa Gorman in Seattle and Dena King. As of the time of reporting, some Biden-appointed U.S. Attorneys remained in office, though many were expected to be replaced.
At the same time, the Republican-controlled United States Senate confirmed three Trump nominees for ambassador posts. Warren Stephens was approved as ambassador to the United Kingdom, Tom Barrack was confirmed for Turkey, and Tilman Fertitta was confirmed for Italy.
Stephens, an Arkansas investment banker, received praise from Senator Tom Cotton, who called him the right person to strengthen the U.S.-U.K. relationship. Stephens had previously donated to both anti-Trump and pro-Trump political groups, later contributing millions to MAGA-aligned organizations in 2024.
Overall, the developments signal the Trump administration’s rapid effort to reshape both the Justice Department’s prosecutorial leadership and the nation’s diplomatic corps with figures seen as more closely aligned to its agenda.
