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

President Donald Trump has nominated two prominent Alabama conservatives-Phil Williams and Thomas Govan Jr.-to serve as U.S. Attorneys for the Northern and Middle Districts of Alabama, respectively. The announcement, made on October 22, 2025, marks a significant reshaping of federal leadership in the state's justice system.

Phil Williams: Northern District Nominee

Williams, a former Republican state senator and longtime conservative radio host, has been tapped to lead the Northern District, which includes Birmingham, Huntsville, and Tuscaloosa. He previously served as chief policy officer at the Alabama Policy Institute and is the founder of Rightside Radio, a talk show known for its sharp commentary on state and national politics.

Williams would replace Prim Escalona, who has served in the role since 2020. His nomination signals a shift toward more ideologically aligned leadership in one of Alabama's most populous federal districts.

Thomas Govan Jr.: Middle District Nominee

Govan campaign

Thomas Govan

Govan, currently chief of the Criminal Trials Division in the Alabama Attorney General's office, has been nominated to serve the Middle District, which covers Montgomery, Dothan, and surrounding counties. He previously ran for the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals in 2024 and is known for his prosecutorial experience and courtroom leadership.

Govan would succeed Kevin P. Davidson, the acting U.S. Attorney. The last Senate-confirmed attorney for the district was Louis V. Franklin Sr., who retired in 2021.

Senate Confirmation Ahead

Both nominations now head to the U.S. Senate for confirmation. Alabama Senators Katie Britt and Tommy Tuberville have voiced support, with Tuberville stating the nominees "will do an excellent job serving our state and our country as U.S. Attorneys".

If confirmed, Williams and Govan will serve four-year terms, with the authority to prosecute federal crimes and represent the United States in civil litigation across their districts.