On January 14, 2026, U.S. District Judge David Nuffer issued a decision concerning the leadership at the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico.
First Assistant United States Attorney Ryan Ellison responded to the ruling with a statement:
“Yesterday, a federal district judge ruled that my designation as Acting United States Attorney was invalid. Importantly, the judge also ruled that I was validly designated as First Assistant United States Attorney and, in that capacity, could continue supervising the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico. The judge also declined to dismiss any of the challenged indictments or disqualify me from supervising those cases.
Since I was appointed last April, I’ve repeatedly used the phrase ‘for however long I serve’ because the duration of my time leading the United States Attorney’s Office has always been uncertain. Even though my title has changed, my mission remains the same. As the top federal prosecutor in New Mexico, I will work tirelessly to enhance public safety for all New Mexicans. I look forward to continuing to work with public servants of all political stripes for the betterment of our state—for however long I serve.”
Judge Nuffer's ruling clarified that while Ellison cannot serve as Acting U.S. Attorney, he is permitted to remain as First Assistant and continue his supervisory duties over ongoing cases within the office.
