Federal Judges Decline to Extend Interim US Attorney's Appointment in Milwaukee
Federal judges in Milwaukee have announced their decision not to extend the appointment of interim U.S. Attorney Brad Schimel beyond next week. This announcement was made on Tuesday, with the judges opting to wait for a permanent appointee to be nominated by President Donald Trump and confirmed by the U.S. Senate.
Background of the Appointment
Attorney General Pam Bondi appointed Brad Schimel in November to a 120-day term as the interim U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin. This district is headquartered in Milwaukee and covers the eastern third of the state. Schimel's term is scheduled to expire on March 17.
Under federal law, judges in a federal district have the authority to extend an interim U.S. attorney's appointment until a permanent appointee assumes the position. However, the judges of the Eastern District revealed that a majority have chosen not to grant such an extension for Schimel.
Judicial Statement and Performance
In a statement posted on the Eastern District's website, the judges clarified that their decision should not be interpreted as criticism of Schimel's performance or qualifications. They emphasized, "In doing so, the Court intends no criticism or commentary on the performance or qualifications of the Interim United States Attorney or any of the attorneys in the United States Attorney's Office."
The judges further praised the office, stating, "To the credit of that office, from the Court's perspective, it has continued to represent the citizens of this district well." When contacted by The Associated Press, Schimel declined to comment on the matter.
Brad Schimel's Career and Recent Case
Brad Schimel, a Republican with a law degree from the University of Wisconsin Law School, has a notable career in Wisconsin's legal system. He previously served as the Waukesha County district attorney before being elected as Wisconsin attorney general in 2014. After losing a bid for a second term to Democrat Josh Kaul in 2018, Schimel was appointed as a judge in Waukesha County by outgoing Republican Governor Scott Walker.
Shortly after being named interim U.S. attorney in November, Schimel oversaw a high-profile prosecution. His team handled the case against Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Hannah Dugan, who was charged in April with assisting an immigrant in evading federal immigration officers at the Milwaukee County courthouse. In December, a jury found Dugan guilty of obstruction, a case that could result in up to five years in prison. Her sentencing has not been scheduled as her attorneys are seeking a new trial.
The decision by the federal judges underscores the procedural steps involved in appointing U.S. attorneys, highlighting the balance between interim leadership and permanent appointments in the federal judiciary. This move ensures that the Eastern District of Wisconsin will await a confirmed full-time U.S. attorney to lead its legal operations moving forward.
