Trump Weighs Elevating Harmeet Dhillon to No. 3 DOJ Post After Leadership Shake-Up

Reports indicate a possible promotion for the Civil Rights chief following a resignation at the Justice Department.

By yourNEWS Media Newsroom

President Donald Trump is considering appointing Harmeet Dhillon to serve as Associate Attorney General, a senior leadership role within the U.S. Department of Justice, following a reported resignation that has prompted additional personnel changes.

According to CBS News, Dhillon, who currently leads the Civil Rights Division, is among the top candidates being considered for the position. The role of Associate Attorney General is the third-highest rank within the department and oversees several key components of federal legal operations.

A separate report from the Daily Wire stated that Stanley Woodward, who previously held the position, stepped down earlier on Saturday, creating the vacancy. Woodward had served as a defense attorney for several high-profile figures, including Peter Navarro, Kash Patel, and Walt Nauta.

The potential promotion comes amid broader restructuring within the department. Pam Bondi was recently removed from her position, with administration officials citing concerns related to major investigations and prosecutorial decisions. In the interim, Todd Blanche has been designated as acting attorney general.

Sources cited in reporting indicate that Dhillon has been discussed internally as a candidate for expanded leadership responsibilities as the administration reviews its legal strategy and personnel alignment. A Justice Department spokesperson declined to comment on the reported changes.

Since her confirmation in 2025 to lead the Civil Rights Division, Dhillon has overseen policy shifts aligned with administration priorities, including legal challenges involving diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, election-related matters, and constitutional issues.

The CBS News report noted that internal discussions had included the possibility of promoting Dhillon while reassigning Woodward, though it was unclear whether a final decision had been made at the time. The report also identified Lee Zeldin as among other individuals previously considered for senior roles within the department.