Former Wisconsin AG Brad Schimel to Lead Milwaukee US Attorney's Office

Political gridlock reshapes federal prosecutor roles as interim U.S. Attorneys take on new titles

Mar. 19, 2026 at 1:51am

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Brad Schimel, the former Wisconsin Attorney General, will continue to oversee operations as the First Assistant U.S. Attorney in Milwaukee after the district's federal judges declined to extend his interim appointment as U.S. Attorney. This move highlights a broader trend across the nation's federal judicial districts, where only 30 of the 94 districts are currently led by a presidentially nominated and Senate-confirmed U.S. Attorney.

Why it matters

The reliance on interim or 'First Assistant' leaders could potentially impact the consistency and direction of federal legal proceedings, as these individuals lack the full authority and political backing of a Senate-confirmed U.S. Attorney. This situation underscores the increasing politicization of the Department of Justice and raises questions about the efficiency and effectiveness of the federal justice system.

The details

Brad Schimel's initial 120-day term as the interim U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin was set to expire on March 17th, but the district's federal judges declined to extend his appointment. As a result, Schimel will continue to oversee operations as the First Assistant U.S. Attorney in Milwaukee. This move follows Schimel's previous service as Wisconsin's Attorney General from 2014 to 2018 and his recent unsuccessful bid for a seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court.

  • Schimel's initial 120-day term as interim U.S. Attorney began in November 2025.
  • Schimel's interim appointment was set to expire on March 17th.

The players

Brad Schimel

The former Wisconsin Attorney General who will continue to oversee operations as the First Assistant U.S. Attorney in Milwaukee.

Pam Bondi

The Attorney General who appointed Schimel as the First Assistant U.S. Attorney in Milwaukee.

Tammy Baldwin

The Democratic Senator from Wisconsin who voiced opposition to extending Schimel's interim role as U.S. Attorney.

Ron Johnson

The Republican Senator from Wisconsin who criticized the judges' decision not to extend Schimel's tenure as U.S. Attorney.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

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

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

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.