UPDATE: U.S. Attorney Erik Siebert has announced his resignation amid intense pressure from President Donald Trump, who publicly expressed his desire to remove Siebert from office. Employees at the Alexandria, Virginia, office were informed of his decision on October 6, 2023, as the fallout from a controversial investigation into New York Attorney General Letitia James escalates.
Trump’s administration was reportedly unhappy with Siebert’s inability to produce evidence against James related to allegations of mortgage fraud. Sources indicate that Trump had been pushing for Siebert to pursue charges, despite a five-month investigation that failed to uncover incriminating evidence. In a statement earlier today, Trump claimed, “It looks to me like she is very guilty of something,” but provided no solid proof.
Siebert’s departure raises significant concerns about leadership within one of the nation’s key U.S. attorney’s offices. His deputy has already vacated her position, leaving the office in a precarious state with no clear successor. This could hinder ongoing prosecutorial efforts in Virginia.
The investigation into James was initiated in April, following a criminal referral from Bill Pulte, director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency. Despite interviewing 15 witnesses, the investigation concluded without establishing clear evidence against James, who has denied any wrongdoing.
In a pointed response to Siebert’s firing, James’ lawyer, Abbe Lowell, characterized the move as a “brazen attack on the rule of law,” stating, “Firing people until he finds someone who will bend the law to carry out his revenge has been the President’s pattern — and it’s illegal.” This situation reflects a troubling trend where political pressures influence legal actions.
Critics argue that Trump’s actions mark a dangerous escalation in a campaign of retribution against perceived political opponents. Trump has accused James of conducting a politically motivated investigation, labeling her as “biased and corrupt.” He further stated, “This has to do with election interference, plain and simple.”
Siebert was first nominated by Trump in May after being recommended by Virginia’s Democratic Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine. He began serving as interim U.S. attorney on January 21, 2023, following the resignation of Jessica Aber. Over his tenure, Siebert has built a reputation for his commitment to public safety through his previous work with the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Police.
As the political landscape remains charged, this development has immediate implications not only for the functioning of the U.S. attorney’s office but also for the ongoing investigations involving Trump’s political rivals. The public awaits further announcements regarding who will step in to lead the office and what that could mean for future prosecutions.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
