Trenton, N.J. – U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger, the top federal prosecutor in New Jersey, has announced his resignation effective January 8, paving the way for President-elect Donald Trump to appoint his replacement. Sellinger’s departure comes as part of the broader reshuffling of U.S. Attorneys that traditionally accompanies a change in presidential administrations.
“Serving as the United States Attorney has been the honor of a lifetime,” Sellinger said in a statement. “My sincere thanks to President Biden for appointing me the temporary steward of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. I leave knowing the storied traditions of this Office will continue through our dedicated career Assistant U.S. Attorneys and staff.”
Sellinger, 70, was appointed to the position in December 2021 with the backing of New Jersey’s senior U.S. Senator Bob Menendez. The two shared a longstanding friendship, with Sellinger raising funds for Menendez’s Senate campaign. However, their relationship reportedly soured when Sellinger recused himself from matters involving Fred Daibes, a co-defendant in Menendez’s federal corruption trial, due to prior work his law firm had handled.
During his three-year tenure, Sellinger highlighted his office’s focus on combating violent crime, bolstering civil rights protections with the creation of a dedicated division, securing convictions against members of a ransomware group, and addressing national security and opioid-related issues.
While there had been speculation that Sellinger might step down regardless of the 2024 election results, his decision aligns with the customary practice of U.S. Attorneys tendering their resignations during presidential transitions. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Vikas Khanna will assume the role of Acting U.S. Attorney following Sellinger’s departure.
As Trump prepares to take office, speculation is growing over potential nominees to lead the U.S. Attorney’s Office in New Jersey. Among the names being discussed are State Senator Doug Steinhardt (R-Lopatcong), State Senator Michael Testa, Jr. (R-Vineland), and Scott McBride, an attorney with Lowenstein Sandler.
Sellinger expressed confidence in the continuity of the office’s mission, stating that its work would remain in capable hands. “This Office will continue to serve the people of New Jersey with integrity and dedication,” he said.
The incoming administration’s choice for U.S. Attorney will play a pivotal role in shaping federal law enforcement priorities in the state, from tackling white-collar crime and public corruption to addressing issues of national significance.
