Trump Nominates Phil Williams and Thomas Govan Jr. as U.S. Attorneys for Alabama

President Donald Trump has nominated two individuals to serve as U.S. Attorneys for Alabama. Former state senator Phil Williams has been put forward for the position in the Northern District of Alabama, while Thomas Govan Jr. is nominated for the Middle District of Alabama.

Phil Williams served as an Alabama state senator from 2010 until 2018. During his tenure, he notably sponsored the controversial anti-transgender “bathroom bill” in 2017, reflecting broader national debates on the issue. Beyond his political career, Williams is a managing member of the law firm Williams, Driskill, Huffstutler & King, LLC and is known for hosting the conservative radio program “Rightside Radio.”

Meanwhile, Thomas Govan Jr. currently holds the position of Chief of the Criminal Trials Division at the Alabama Attorney General’s Office. He recently ran for a judgeship on the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals in 2024 but was unsuccessful in his bid.

The nominations come at a time when both positions are critical to federal law enforcement efforts in the state. The U.S. Attorneys play a significant role in prosecuting federal crimes, as well as in overseeing legal affairs in their respective districts. The nominations must be confirmed by the Senate before they can take effect.

The selection of these candidates reflects Trump’s ongoing influence within the Republican Party and his administration’s approach to judicial appointments. The nominees are expected to align with the administration’s legal and policy priorities, particularly on issues surrounding law enforcement and criminal justice.

As the nomination process unfolds, both Williams and Govan will likely face scrutiny regarding their past records and positions. Their confirmations could have lasting implications for federal legal proceedings in Alabama, as well as for broader political dynamics within the state.