The Justice Department on Friday swiftly fired James Hundley, a veteran attorney tapped by judges to serve as U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, an office that has recently handled politically sensitive cases involving opponents of President Donald Trump.

Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche announced Hundley’s dismissal on social media shortly after the unanimous judicial selection, writing, “EDVA judges do not pick our US Attorney. POTUS does. James Hundley, you’re fired!” Hundley, who has over 30 years of experience handling criminal and civil cases, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The firing highlights continuing tensions over U.S. attorney appointments in high-profile federal offices. Since September, the EDVA office has faced upheaval following the resignation of veteran prosecutor Erik Siebert under pressure from the Trump administration to pursue cases against former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James. Siebert’s replacement, Lindsey Halligan, a White House aide, secured indictments against the two officials, but a judge later ruled her appointment unlawful, and the cases were dismissed. Halligan resigned last month amid ongoing judicial skepticism.

Under federal law, U.S. attorneys normally require Senate confirmation, but attorneys general can make temporary appointments. Disputes have arisen when the Justice Department has attempted to retain temporary appointees beyond their authorized periods, prompting court challenges.

Hundley’s dismissal follows a similar recent incident in northern New York, where the DOJ fired a judge-appointed U.S. attorney after less than a day in office. These actions reflect broader conflicts between the executive branch and federal courts over the authority to appoint top federal prosecutors.

The Eastern District of Virginia is considered one of the Justice Department’s most elite offices, making these high-profile personnel disputes closely watched for their potential impact on politically sensitive prosecutions nationwide.