Andrew Boutros to be interim U.S. attorney, Chicago

Andrew Boutros, a seasoned lawyer from Chicago, is likely to be named as the interim U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Illinois. Sources say the Trump administration is preparing to announce his appointment soon. Boutros, 47, is currently a co-chair at Shook Hardy & Bacon LLP and has previously worked as a federal prosecutor. He was vetted for the position by U.S. Representative Darin LaHood, who conducted interviews over the past month. Although LaHood recommended other candidates, the Trump administration chose Boutros after a meeting last week. Boutros' appointment comes after two years of leadership changes in the U.S. attorney’s office, following the departure of John Lausch in March 2023. His interim status allows him to start work without Senate confirmation, which will be required for a permanent appointment later. As a former federal prosecutor, Boutros has a strong reputation for hard work and dedication. His experience includes high-profile cases involving drug trafficking and public corruption. His colleagues regard him as a driven individual who understands the importance of the office and its role in law enforcement. The U.S. attorney’s office in Chicago has been facing challenges in recent years. While it has secured significant convictions, overall productivity has declined, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic. The office, once among the busiest in the nation, has seen its indictment rates drop significantly. LaHood emphasized the need for a strong U.S. attorney to address crime and corruption in Chicago while ensuring the policies of the Trump administration are upheld. Critics have raised concerns about the trend of appointing interim U.S. attorneys instead of permanent ones who undergo Senate approval. Boutros' appointment is expected to bring renewed energy to an office that has faced difficulties, aiming to restore its former status as a key player in federal law enforcement.