(New York) — February 13, 2026 — The White House fired U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Damian Williams, hours after a panel of judges appointed him to the position, multiple news outlets reported.
The Biden administration removed a key federal prosecutor in New York shortly after his selection by a judicial panel, raising questions about the independence of the Justice Department.
- Damian Williams was appointed to the position by a panel of judges on Monday.
- The White House fired Williams on the same day, according to reports from The Washington Post and The New York Times.
- The Justice Department confirmed the firing to CBS News, but did not provide a reason.
What Happened
Damian Williams was removed from his position as U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York by the White House on Monday, just hours after being selected for the role by a panel of judges, according to The Washington Post and The New York Times.
Details of the Removal
The Justice Department confirmed the firing to CBS News, but offered no explanation for the decision. The timing of the dismissal, so soon after the judges’ appointment, has drawn scrutiny. Politico reported that Williams was appointed by judges as part of a process to replace a Trump-era appointee.
Sarcone Remains in Role
According to a report from the Times Union, Michael Sarcone, who had been serving in an acting capacity, has relinquished the “acting” title but will remain in his position. The circumstances surrounding Sarcone’s continued employment were not immediately clear.
Time.news based this report in part on reporting by The Washington Post, The New York Times, CBS News, Politico, and the Times Union and added independent analysis and context.
