President Trump is expected to appoint Joseph Nocella Jr. as the interim U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of New York, bypassing Senator Chuck Schumer's announced opposition to the nomination. Nocella, a Long Island district judge with prior prosecutorial experience, will be sworn in privately. His selection has surprised some due to his limited experience in important roles, as he previously presided over family court and lower-level offenses. Nonetheless, he is well-connected within GOP circles on Long Island, having supported various Republican initiatives over the years.
Mr. Trump would sidestep the objections of Senator Chuck Schumer, the New York Democrat and minority leader, who had said he would block Mr. Nocella's nomination.
Mr. Nocella, who arrived at the U.S. attorney's office Monday morning, was to be sworn in by the district's chief judge in a private ceremony in the afternoon.
Todd Blanche, the No. 2 official at the Justice Department, privately objected to the nomination, telling the White House that the position was too important to place in the hands of someone with relatively little experience.
Mr. Nocella is well-connected in G.O.P. circles on Long Island and has been a regular contributor to Republican causes, including candidates and clubs.
Collection
[
|
...
]