Former SEC Chairman Jay Clayton has been appointed as the Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York.

PANews reported on April 23 that former U.S. SEC Chairman Jay Clayton has been appointed as the Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, succeeding Damian Williams, who played a key role in several high-profile Crypto Assets cases. This appointment is temporary, as Democratic Senate Leader Chuck Schumer used a “blue slip” to block a confirmation vote for Clayton on April 16. Senators can use a “blue slip” to prevent judicial nominees from their state, including U.S. Attorneys or District Court nominees. Clayton can serve as Acting U.S. Attorney without Senate approval for a maximum term of 120 days. Clayton’s temporary position will last until around August 20. After that, he will need Senate approval or a temporary extension from the Manhattan Federal Court.