Natalie K. Wight, U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon
The United States Attorney's Office for the District of Oregon has announced the departure of Natalie K. Wight from her position as United States Attorney. Ms. Wight was informed of her termination by the White House, which expressed gratitude for her service to the nation.
Ms. Wight, a veteran with two decades at the Department of Justice, began her career through the Attorney General's Honors Program in 2003. She was nominated by President Joseph R. Biden Jr., with support from Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, on June 6, 2022, and confirmed by the U.S. Senate on September 9, 2022.
"I am proud of the Office's dedication to protecting Oregon's youth, supporting law enforcement, and maintaining strong agency partnerships," said former U.S. Attorney Wight. Her tenure included initiatives like educating students about fentanyl dangers and hosting Junior Justice Summits to engage student leaders with civic goals.
Ms. Wight expressed appreciation for community efforts in Oregon: "I want to thank our Oregon communities and our exceptional public servants for helping to keep Oregon a safe and beautiful place to live." She also noted her pride in working alongside dedicated colleagues.
During her time as U.S. Attorney, Ms. Wight served on the Attorney General's Advisory Committee (AGAC) as a Ninth Circuit representative, advising on legal issues affecting various districts. She was involved with national subcommittees focusing on Controlled Substances, Violent Crime, Child Exploitation, and Native American Issues.
The District of Oregon comprises thirty-six counties and nine tribal reservations. The U.S. Attorney's Offices located in Portland, Eugene, and Medford handle criminal prosecutions and civil litigation involving federal interests.
Following Ms. Wight’s departure under the Vacancies Reform Act provisions, the First Assistant U.S. Attorney will serve as Acting U.S. Attorney.