Change in Leadership: Federal Prosecutor Oversight in Wisconsin

Sat Mar 21 2026 20:22:41 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

As Senate Democrats stall confirmations for presidential appointments, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi appoints Brad Schimel as first assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin.

Following the expiration of Brad Schimel's interim term as U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, Attorney General Pam Bondi has appointed him as the first assistant U.S. attorney. This decision comes as Senate Democrats delay confirmations of President Trump's nominees, leading to many acting positions across the country. Senator Tammy Baldwin opposes Schimel's continued involvement due to concerns over partisanship, while Senator Ron Johnson supports his appointment, calling the judges' decision not to extend Schimel's interim role 'bizarre.'

MADISON, Wis. — In a significant move reflecting the current state of federal judicial appointments, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi has appointed Brad Schimel as the first assistant U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin. This decision comes after Schimel's interim term as U.S. attorney was set to expire and was not extended by the district's judges.

Since Senator Democrats are delaying confirmation votes on President Donald Trump's appointees, many federal judicial districts are being managed by interim or acting attorneys. Currently, only 30 out of the nation's 94 federal judicial districts are led by individuals who have been officially nominated and confirmed by the Senate.

Schimel expressed appreciation for the opportunity, stating he will continue to work to enhance safety and strength within the district. His background includes serving as the district attorney in Waukesha County and as Wisconsin's attorney general, a position he lost in 2018.

While Republicans, including Senator Ron Johnson, have shown support for Schimel's role, Senator Tammy Baldwin has publicly criticized his appointment, labeling him a partisan figure and emphasizing the need for a U.S. Attorney who prioritizes the rule of law over loyalty to the President. This situation exemplifies the ongoing political tensions surrounding judicial appointments at the federal level.

As Schimel takes this new role, the dynamics in Wisconsin’s federal legal system will remain under scrutiny amid the broader landscape of judicial and political developments across the United States.