“I applaud Senator Schumer for his recommendation of Trini Ross as the next United States Attorney for the Western District of New York. I have known Ms. Ross professionally and personally for almost 20 years, and I can attest that she has the experience, character, and judgment needed to perform the critical work of lead prosecutor for the WDNY.

“Prior to my election to the state Assembly, I served for over a decade as a federal law clerk for the WDNY, where I saw Ms. Ross indict, prosecute, try, and resolve cases ethically and fairly throughout her tenure as an Assistant United States Attorney.She was respected by fellow prosecutors, defense attorneys, and judges, and earned a reputation as an AUSA who worked hard to satisfy the government’s burden and who made sure that federal laws were applied fairly and equally to everyone.

“Ms. Ross later rose to a supervisory role as Senior Litigation Counsel for the Criminal Division and to top positions in the U.S. Department of Justice. Her impressive career illustrates the widespread respect she has earned, her ability to manage both cases and people, and her experience in prosecuting a wide range of offenses.

“Additionally, Trini Ross would be the first woman of color to hold this post. Her confirmation would help ensure that positions of leadership in our justice system reflect the diversity of the people whom they serve. For these reasons, I urge President Biden to nominate and the U.S. Senate to confirm Trini Ross as the next to United States Attorney for the Western District of New York.”