Rep. LaHood Calls Trump Policies a ‘Priority’ as He Opens Search for New Top Federal Prosecutor
Background
U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood recently opened the search for Chicago’s next top federal prosecutor, emphasizing that the new appointee must prioritize implementing the policies and priorities of the Trump Administration.
LaHood’s Statement
According to his office, LaHood stressed the importance of selecting a strong U.S. attorney who will:
- Ensure the implementation of immigration laws
- Fight to stop rising criminal activity in Chicago
- Support law enforcement
- Prevent public corruption
Challenges Facing the Northern District of Illinois
The Northern District of Illinois has been without a confirmed U.S. attorney for over 22 months, with Acting U.S. Attorney Morris "Sonny" Pasqual at the helm. LaHood noted that under Pasqual’s leadership, there has been a drop in convictions, with one of the lower indictment rates across the country.
Rich History of Fighting Crime and Prosecuting Public Corruption
The Northern District of Illinois has a long history of fighting crime and prosecuting public corruption, making it one of the busiest federal trial courts in the United States. Despite this, the overall number of criminal cases filed in the district has seen a decline over the years.
Decline in Criminal Cases
In 2011, the final full year of ex-U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald’s tenure, more than 900 criminal cases were filed. This number dropped to just under 700 in 2022, Lausch’s final full year, and just over 600 in 2024.
U.S. Attorney John R. Lausch
Lausch was the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois from 2017 to 2023. He was a strong supporter of Trump’s policies and priorities.
The Saga of Lausch’s Replacement
The search for Lausch’s replacement began in early 2021, when then-President Joe Biden moved to replace most top federal prosecutors across the country. U.S. Sens. Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth, both Democrats, urged Biden to keep Lausch in office to conclude "sensitive investigations."
Conclusion
As the search for a new U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Illinois continues, it is clear that LaHood is prioritizing the implementation of Trump’s policies and priorities. This may lead to a more conservative approach to law enforcement and prosecution in the district.
FAQs
Q: What is the significance of the search for a new U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Illinois?
A: The search is significant because it will determine the direction of law enforcement and prosecution in the district, which is one of the busiest federal trial courts in the United States.
Q: What are the priorities of the Trump Administration in this context?
A: The Trump Administration has emphasized the importance of implementing immigration laws, fighting rising criminal activity, supporting law enforcement, and preventing public corruption.
Q: How does the search for a new U.S. attorney affect the ongoing investigations and cases in the district?
A: The search for a new U.S. attorney may affect the direction and outcome of ongoing investigations and cases, particularly those involving immigration, crime, and public corruption.
