White House Names New Pick for Nevada Top Federal Prosecutor

Nomination comes after challenges to previous pick's eligibility to serve

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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The Trump administration has selected George Kelesis, a longtime criminal defense attorney in Nevada, as its new nominee for Nevada's top federal prosecutor. This comes after challenges to the eligibility of the previous nominee, Sigal Chattah, whose appointment is now under review by an appeals court. Kelesis may have an easier path to Senate confirmation compared to Chattah, who was opposed by Nevada's Democratic senators.

Why it matters

The appointment of U.S. attorneys, the top federal prosecutors around the country, has become a point of contention, with several Trump nominees facing eligibility issues and court challenges. This case highlights the ongoing political battles over these key law enforcement positions.

The details

Last week, the White House announced the nomination of George Kelesis to replace Sigal Chattah as Nevada's top federal prosecutor. Chattah was appointed to the position last March, but her eligibility is now under review by an appeals court. Several other Trump nominees for U.S. attorney positions have faced similar eligibility challenges, with some being forced to leave their posts. Kelesis is a longtime criminal defense attorney in Nevada who has expertise in white collar and tax litigation. He is registered as a nonpartisan voter and has donated to both Democrats and Republicans over the years, which may make him more palatable to the state's Democratic senators.

  • Last week, the White House announced the nomination of George Kelesis.
  • In September, a lower-court judge ruled that Chattah is not validly serving in the role, but allowed her to continue overseeing several cases while the appeal moved ahead.
  • Last week, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals heard arguments on Chattah's case but has not issued a ruling.

The players

George Kelesis

A longtime criminal defense attorney in Nevada who has been nominated by the Trump administration to replace Sigal Chattah as Nevada's top federal prosecutor.

Sigal Chattah

The previous nominee for Nevada's top federal prosecutor, whose eligibility to serve is now under review by an appeals court.

Catherine Cortez Masto

A Democratic senator from Nevada who was staunchly opposed to Chattah's appointment and will conduct a 'tough, thorough interview' with Kelesis.

Jacky Rosen

A Democratic senator from Nevada who was also opposed to Chattah's appointment.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.