James McDonald named US Attorney for Southern District of New York by Donald Trump

President Donald Trump announced on June 13, 2026 that he will nominate James (Jamie) McDonald to serve as the US Attorney for the Southern District of New York (SDNY), replacing Jay Clayton who is moving to the role of Director of National Intelligence. McDonald, a partner at Sullivan & Cromwell, previously served as an assistant US attorney in the SDNY, was director of enforcement at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, worked in the White House Counsel’s Office, and clerked for Chief Justice John Roberts. Trump highlighted McDonald’s experience with his hush‑money appeal and described him as a “distinguished graduate” of the University of Virginia and Harvard Law School.

The appointment comes as the SDNY, which handles high‑profile cases involving terrorism, sanctions, narcotics trafficking, public corruption and other national‑security matters, prepares for a leadership change. Trump also halted a Senate confirmation session for the National Intelligence Director position, saying it would not proceed until McDonald’s nomination is approved. In his statement, Trump accused Democrats of violating the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act and warned against caving to opposition. The move reflects a broader reshuffling of senior justice and intelligence posts under the administration.