Trump Administration Moves to Fire Newly Appointed U.S. Attorney

The Justice Department seeks to remove the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of New York appointed by federal judges.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Justice Department has moved to fire Donald Kinsella, the newly appointed U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of New York, on the same day that federal judges unveiled his appointment to replace a prosecutor allied with the Trump administration. The Trump administration has faced criticism for targeting political opponents, and this latest move is seen as part of those efforts.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and the judicial branch, as well as concerns about political interference in the appointment of U.S. Attorneys. It also raises questions about the administration's treatment of political opponents, such as New York Attorney General Letitia James, who has been the target of investigations.

The details

The Justice Department moved to fire Kinsella, who has decades of experience in criminal and civil litigation and was previously an assistant U.S. Attorney, just hours after federal judges appointed him to replace John Sarcone, who had been serving on an acting basis. Sarcone was disqualified by a court last month for unlawfully serving as the top federal prosecutor in the state's capital of Albany.

  • On February 11, 2026, federal judges appointed Donald Kinsella as the new U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of New York.
  • Also on February 11, 2026, the Justice Department moved to fire Kinsella.

The players

Donald Kinsella

The newly appointed U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of New York, with decades of experience in criminal and civil litigation and previously serving as an assistant U.S. Attorney.

John Sarcone

The former acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of New York, who was disqualified by a court last month for unlawfully serving in that role.

Letitia James

The elected Democratic Attorney General of New York, who has been the target of investigations by the Trump administration.

Todd Blanche

The Deputy Attorney General who wrote on X that Kinsella was being fired, stating 'Judges don't pick U.S. Attorneys, @POTUS does.'

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'You are fired, Donald Kinsella,' ”

— Todd Blanche, Deputy Attorney General (X)

What’s next

It is unclear if the Justice Department will be successful in its efforts to remove the newly appointed U.S. Attorney, Donald Kinsella, or if this will face further legal challenges.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing power struggle between the executive and judicial branches, as well as concerns about political interference in the appointment of U.S. Attorneys. It raises questions about the administration's treatment of political opponents and the potential consequences of such actions.