Story perspectives

9th Circuit Bars Sigal Chattah From Nevada Prosecutor Role

8/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

Aug 18 2026: 9th Circuit barred Sigal Chattah from acting as Nevada’s federal prosecutor.
Judge Eric D. Miller said the Attorney General violated the Vacancies Reform Act.
Judge David Campbell disqualified Chattah in Sep 2025 for exceeding the 120-day limit.
She resigned before the deadline, was reappointed by Pam Bondi, and stayed acting.
Justice Department will appeal after President Donald Trump’s administration nominated attorney George Kelesis in Feb 2026.

History

Historical Context

The FVRA, signed by President Bill Clinton on Oct 21 1998, limited acting officials to 210 days (300 days for a new president) and required agency reports to Congress. After the Watergate-era revision, courts have tightened enforcement, exemplified by the 2025 ruling against Alina Habba’s acting U.S. attorney role and the 2026 criticism of Bill Pulte’s acting intelligence director. The trend foresees stricter judicial oversight of temporary appointments.

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Story summary

Aug 18 2026: 9th Circuit barred Sigal Chattah from acting as Nevada’s federal prosecutor.
Judge Eric D. Miller said the Attorney General violated the Vacancies Reform Act.
Judge David Campbell disqualified Chattah in Sep 2025 for exceeding the 120-day limit.
She resigned before the deadline, was reappointed by Pam Bondi, and stayed acting.
Justice Department will appeal after President Donald Trump’s administration nominated attorney George Kelesis in Feb 2026.

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