Former SEC Chairman Jay Clayton has been appointed by President Donald Trump as interim U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, while his full-time nomination awaits Senate confirmation. Trump announced the move on Truth Social, emphasizing the need for "strong leadership NOW" in the influential Manhattan-based federal prosecutor’s office.
Clayton, a veteran lawyer from Sullivan & Cromwell, is known for his work in mergers and capital raising, and his consensus-driven approach during his tenure at the SEC in Trump’s first term. A political independent, Clayton has yet to respond publicly to the appointment. The Southern District declined to comment.
Trump nominated Clayton for the position in November, but his confirmation has been delayed. On the same day, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer announced his intent to block both Clayton’s nomination and that of Joseph Nacella Jr., Trump’s pick for the Eastern District of New York. Schumer cited a Senate tradition that gives home-state senators the power to halt certain judicial and prosecutorial appointments.
Schumer, who represents New York, stated on X (formerly Twitter), "I will not let the Senate move forward on President Trump’s nominees for U.S. Attorney for the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York." His opposition could significantly hinder Trump’s efforts to install new leadership in two of the nation’s most prominent federal districts.
Clayton’s appointment comes at a politically charged moment as Trump seeks to fill key legal positions before the upcoming election season. Whether Clayton will be confirmed remains uncertain as Senate Democrats move to exercise their procedural authority to block the nominations.