Public defenders file to disqualify Essayli from acting as US Attorney

The authority of US attorneys nationwide are challenged. Two-hundred and seventy-nine days into Trump’s second president, only 18 US Attorneys are confirmed throughout the nation’s 94 districts, according to the Department of Justice.

Aidan McGloin

Oct 26, 2025 - 4 min read

Bill Essayli cannot legally execute the office of the US Attorney for the Central District of California, federal public defenders argue in defense of a Riverside man. Essayli was first placed in charge of the department when appointed by US Attorney General Pamela Bondi on April 2, but has not been approved by the US Senate.

“Mr. Essayli is improperly serving as a non-confirmed US Attorney at least thrice over,” the motion reads.

Try out two weeks of free access to keep reading

Redeem full access to the site for two weeks by signing up to our Sunday newsletter

Subscribe now

Already a member? Sign in