Multiple U.S. Attorneys Depart from Posts Across States

Recent departures of U.S. Attorneys across various states reflect a trend of political appointees leaving their positions at the start of a new presidential administration. Gary Restaino has left his role as U.S. Attorney for Arizona, with Rachel C. Hernandez stepping in as acting U.S. attorney. In Pennsylvania, Jacqueline C. Romero concluded her tenure, highlighting a significant drop in violent crime and increased prosecutions during her time in office, with Nelson S.T. Thayer Jr. now acting in her place. Trina A. Higgins, the first woman to serve as U.S. Attorney for the District of Utah, also stepped down, having prioritized complex crime prosecutions and building law enforcement relationships throughout her tenure. Josh Hurwit departed from his position in Idaho after focusing on civil rights, hate crimes, and fentanyl-related issues, with Justin Whatcott acting as U.S. Attorney temporarily. These changes underscore the ongoing shifts within the U.S. Attorney's offices following political transitions.