October 2, 2026

In the bustling legal scene of Seattle, Washington, a unique situation has unfolded that mirrors a high-stakes political drama. Two individuals are currently identifying themselves as the legitimate U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Washington, yet neither has been confirmed by the U.S. Senate, leading to a contentious legal and political battle.
The saga began when Roger Rogoff was appointed on July 15 as the U.S. Attorney by the district judges under 28 U.S.C. § 546(d), a statute that allows such an appointment if the President's interim nominee's tenure expires without a Senate-confirmed successor. However, this appointment was short-lived as within an hour, Attorney General Todd Blanche dismissed Rogoff, igniting a flurry of legal disputes and public statements.
On social media, AG Blanche justified the dismissal, stating that while district court judges can appoint a temporary U.S. Attorney, the President retains the authority to fire them. This move was seen as a continuation of efforts to bypass traditional Senate confirmation processes, which have been particularly strained under the current administration's attempts to install loyalists in key judicial positions without Senate approval.
The controversy has sparked significant legal debate, particularly around the powers of the President versus the judiciary in appointing key legal positions. Judge Stanley Bastian of the Eastern District of Washington weighed in heavily when Rogoff sued to reclaim his position. Judge Bastian's ruling emphasized that the law does not grant the President the authority to remove a judicial appointee, a stance that sets a significant precedent.
"The two branches must work together to fill the office for longer than the short periods of time authorized by the statutes," Judge Bastian stated, underscoring the need for cooperation between the Executive and the Judiciary to resolve such appointments permanently. His decision reinstated Rogoff, at least temporarily, pending a Senate confirmation or further legal challenges.
This ruling did not sit well with the administration, which has quickly appealed the decision. The legal community is closely watching the developments, as this case could significantly impact the balance of power between the judiciary and the executive branch.
Amidst this legal back-and-forth, another figure, Charles Floyd, a former immigration judge, was installed as U.S. Attorney after Rogoff's dismissal. This has led to an unusual scenario where two individuals claim the same title, creating confusion and tension within the legal offices of Seattle.
As the case progresses, with implications that might reach as far as the Supreme Court, the legal and political communities remain gripped by the outcomes of this unprecedented confrontation over judicial appointments. This case not only questions the procedural norms but also tests the constitutional safeguards of the U.S. political system.