Former SEC Chairman Jay Clayton sworn in as Acting U.S. Attorney in Manhattan

The nominee by Trump, Jay Clayton, has been appointed as the Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York after Democratic Senate leader Chuck Schumer blocked his confirmation vote.

Former SEC Chairman Jay Clayton confirmed he has been appointed as the Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York after the Democratic Senate leader used a "blue slip" to prevent a confirmation vote on Clayton's position.

The appointment comes more than five months after U.S. President Donald Trump nominated Clayton for the role. He replaces Damian Williams, who played a key role in convicting former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried and other high-profile cryptocurrency cases.

Clayton stated on April 22 that his top priority is to protect public safety, ensure the integrity of the U.S. financial system, safeguard national security interests, and combat fraud, particularly against the elderly and the most vulnerable.

The temporary nature of Clayton's appointment is due to Democratic Minority Leader in the Senate Chuck Schumer using a blue slip to block Clayton's confirmation on April 16, effectively preventing a Senate vote and his official confirmation to the position.

Senators can use a blue slip to block nominees for U.S. Attorney or district court judges in their state. #FTX