President Donald Trump reportedly announced the appointment of Jay Clayton as the interim U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, effectively circumventing Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer’s efforts to block his nomination.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump praised Clayton, noting his previous role as Chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission and claiming he received “wide, bipartisan support.”
Trump highlighted that he had originally nominated Clayton in mid-November and criticized Schumer for attempting to block the nomination, as well as another nominee, Joseph Nocella Jr., for the Eastern District of New York.
Schumer planned to use the “blue slip” tradition, which allows home-state senators to obstruct nominees they do not support.
In response to Schumer’s actions, Trump stated, “The Southern District needs strong leadership NOW,” and expressed gratitude for Clayton stepping into the interim role while the administration pursues full Senate confirmation.
He emphasized the importance of the Southern District in overseeing financial markets and ensuring the safety of New Yorkers.
Schumer, however, accused Trump of using the Justice Department for political gain, expressing skepticism about Trump’s intentions for these important positions.
He stated that he would not return the blue slip for the U.S. Attorney nominees for New York, citing concerns over political motivations undermining the rule of law.
While the Republican-majority Senate Judiciary Committee could potentially disregard Schumer’s objections, Chairman Chuck Grassley indicated a reluctance to break the blue slip tradition.
Trump’s administration remains committed to securing full confirmation for Clayton and ensuring effective leadership in the Southern District.
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