Republican Ohio Senator J.D. Vance’s relentless hold on all U.S. attorney appointments, including that of April Perry for the Northern District of Illinois, has created a vacuum in law enforcement and emboldened criminals. Perry, a highly qualified nominee, has been left in limbo for over a year due to Vance’s politically motivated obstructionism, stemming from his allegiance to former President Donald Trump.
Vance’s actions have crippled the Northern District of Illinois, which serves nine million people across 18 counties. The absence of a Senate-confirmed U.S. attorney has created uncertainty and inertia within the office, hindering long-range decision-making and diminishing its influence within the Justice Department.
Acting U.S. Attorney Morris “Sonny” Pasqual, despite his experience and leadership qualities, lacks the authority and support a Senate-confirmed leader would provide. The office also lacks a first assistant and a top criminal division chief, leaving key roles vacant and undermining effective prosecution.
Vance’s hold extends beyond Illinois, leaving the U.S. attorney position for Northern Ohio, his home state, vacant for an unprecedented duration. Attempts to bypass Vance’s obstruction through a “motion to proceed” would face a filibuster, highlighting the challenges in reforming procedural holds within the Senate.
Vance’s actions have made him an ally to criminals and an adversary to justice. He has achieved nothing but harm to Illinois and the nation, while undermining the integrity of the Justice Department and emboldening those who would break the law.
