Federal prosecutor in Wisconsin resigns

The U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin has submitted his resignation days after Attorney General Jeff Sessions ordered dozens of the country’s federal prosecutors to resign.

Spokeswoman Myra Longfield confirmed U.S. Attorney John Vaudreuil resigned Monday. While it is customary for new presidential administrations to clear out U.S. attorneys and replace them with their own nominees, Sessions’ request Friday came earlier than some expected.

“It’s part of the political process. Some of the positions are appointed by the president. Some judges are appointed, but they’re appointed for life. Prosecutors are appointed for the term of the president, and I understand it. I respect it,” Vaudreuil said.

Vaudreuil was first appointed by former President Barack Obama in 2010. His district spans the western two-thirds of the state, including Dane, La Crosse and Eau Claire Counties, among many others.

First assistant Jeffrey Anderson will replace Vaudreuil until a new attorney is confirmed. Longfield says open investigations will be ongoing.

Vaudreuil said the change should have no effect on the people of Wisconsin.