In a stunning turn of events, Erik Siebert, the Interim U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, resigned on Friday following a public demand from President Donald Trump for his removal, as the New York Post reports.
This resignation comes as Siebert was overseeing a high-profile investigation into mortgage fraud allegations against New York State Attorney General Letitia James, though no criminal charges have been filed yet.
Siebert’s tenure as Interim U.S. Attorney began eight months ago, during which he led the office in Alexandria, Virginia. He was nominated by Trump for the permanent role in May. However, his confirmation by the Senate had not yet occurred at the time of his departure.
Despite the initial nomination, Trump’s support for Siebert waned after learning that Virginia’s two Democrat senators, Tim Kaine and Mark Warner, backed the nominee. The president expressed his discontent, stating, “I have other people, judges, and I have U.S. attorneys for other states where I have the same situation.” He added that their approval influenced his decision to reconsider.
Trump’s frustration culminated in a blunt public statement from the Oval Office, where he declared, “I want him out,” referring to Siebert. This comment marked a sharp pivot from his earlier support. It set the stage for Siebert’s eventual resignation.
On Friday, Siebert informed his staff of his decision to step down via email from his Alexandria office. He wrote, “This evening, I submitted my resignation as Interim U.S. Attorney for [Eastern District of Virginia].” His message reflected on his time in the role with gratitude.
Siebert also thanked his colleagues for their dedication, stating, “For the last eight months, I have had the pleasure of leading the finest and most exceptional of DOJ employees who care deeply about our nation and our EDVA community.” His email conveyed appreciation for their efforts. He acknowledged the lessons and sacrifices made by his team.
He further expressed, “Thank you for the lessons you have taught me, the sacrifices you have made, and the pursuit of justice you strive for every day.” This sentiment underscored his respect for the staff. It was one of his final communications as their leader.
At the heart of Siebert’s work was an ongoing probe into allegations of mortgage fraud against Letitia James, New York’s attorney general. The investigation stemmed from a request in April by Federal Housing Finance Agency Director William Pulte, who urged the FBI to examine claims against her. Pulte alleged that James falsified records to secure favorable loans.
Specifically, Pulte claimed James misrepresented information regarding a home in Norfolk, Virginia, purchased in 2023, and a Brooklyn brownstone owned since 2001. He alleged she indicated the Norfolk property as her primary residence while serving in New York. These accusations form the basis of the fraud inquiry.
James has vehemently denied the allegations, calling them “baseless” and suggesting they are part of a “revenge tour” by Trump. This comes after she pursued civil fraud charges against Trump and the Trump Organization. Her response highlights the politically charged nature of the situation.
Prosecutors have already convened a grand jury to review evidence in the case against James. As of Friday midday, Siebert had not issued any recommendation to drop the investigation. A meeting with Justice Department Special Attorney Ed Martin was scheduled for Monday to discuss the case’s progress.
Trump, for his part, has remained ambiguous about the investigation into James. He remarked, “We’re going to see what happens,” indicating he is not closely following the developments. His stance leaves the future of the probe uncertain.
He also commented, “I am not following it very closely. It looks to me like she’s very guilty of something, but I really don’t know.” This reflects his detached yet suggestive perspective on the matter.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia did not respond to inquiries from the Post regarding Siebert’s resignation or the ongoing investigation. The sudden exit of Siebert raises questions about the future direction of the case. It remains unclear who will take over leadership of the office and the probe into James.