U.S. District Court Judge Joshua M. Kindred, appointed by former President Donald Trump, resigned amid a Ninth Circuit investigation that found he violated the judicial code of conduct by creating a hostile work environment and having an inappropriate sexual relationship with a law clerk. The investigation, prompted by complaints in late 2022, detailed Kindred's offensive behavior, including discussing his sex life, making vulgar remarks, and lying to investigators about his conduct. The Judicial Council of the Ninth Circuit requested his resignation and referred the case for possible impeachment by the Judicial Conference. Kindred's resignation letter to President Biden took effect on July 8, 2024. Judiciary leaders emphasized the need for high standards and accountability among judges.