Federal Judge Exposes Unlawful Trump-Appointed Cronyism: Bill Essayli Disqualified as Acting U.S. Attorney in Los Angeles

A federal judge has taken a stand against the Trump administration’s pattern of flouting the law by disqualifying Bill Essayli from serving as the acting U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California. Judge J. Michael Seabright found that Essayli’s appointment was a clear violation of federal law, highlighting the administration’s ongoing efforts to sidestep democratic oversight and Senate confirmation. Judge Seabright’s ruling stated unequivocally: 'Simply stated: Essayli unlawfully assumed the role of Acting United States Attorney for the Central District of California. He has been unlawfully serving in that capacity since his resignation from the interim role on July 29, 2025.' Despite this, the judge allowed Essayli to continue as first assistant U.S. attorney—a position that conveniently requires no Senate confirmation, further demonstrating how these appointments are manipulated to bypass accountability. Seabright also refused to dismiss indictments in three cases challenged by defense attorneys, noting that other prosecutors had signed the indictments and that Essayli’s involvement had not yet resulted in due process violations. This decision is yet another example of the judiciary pushing back against the Trump administration’s reckless disregard for legal norms, following similar rulings in New Jersey and Nevada where courts found acting U.S. attorneys were unlawfully installed. The Department of Justice, clinging to the Federal Vacancies Reform Act, continues to defend these appointments, but Judge Seabright’s decision signals a growing judicial resistance to executive overreach. As of now, the Department of Justice has not announced if it will appeal, and Essayli’s office remains silent—perhaps unable to justify yet another abuse of power.