United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson has announced his decision to step down from his role as the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana. His resignation will take effect at 11:59 p.m. on January 17, 2025. This marks the end of a long and distinguished career in public service for Mr. Johnson, who has held various positions within the Department of Justice (DOJ) over the past four decades.
The tradition of U.S. attorneys stepping down at the start of a new presidential administration is a customary practice in the United States. The incoming President has the authority to either retain or replace U.S. attorneys across the country. Typically, these resignations occur collectively to allow the new administration to appoint its preferred candidates.
On December 16, 2024, U.S. Attorney Johnson submitted his resignation letters to President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. and U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland. Reflecting on his time in office, Johnson said, “It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana. I wish to thank President Biden, Attorney General Garland, and Senator Todd Young, as well as former Senator Mike Braun, for giving me the opportunity to serve the citizens of the United States in this capacity. Serving as this District’s U.S. Attorney has been the capstone of my career in public service.”
A Career Spanning Four Decades
Clifford D. Johnson was nominated by President Biden on July 26, 2021, and unanimously confirmed by the Senate on September 30, 2021, as the United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana. Before assuming this role, Johnson served as an Assistant United States Attorney in the same district from 1986 to August 2020. During his tenure, he held several key supervisory and management roles, including Chief of the Civil Division from 1997 to 2010 and two separate terms as the First Assistant U.S. Attorney (June 2010 to March 2017 and October 2017 to August 2020).
Notably, Mr. Johnson served as the Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana from March 2017 to October 2017, under the provisions of the Vacancy Reform Act. His extensive experience and dedication to justice have earned him a reputation as a committed and skilled legal professional.
Before joining the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Johnson worked as a Trial Attorney in the Employment Litigation Section of the DOJ’s Civil Rights Division in Washington, D.C., from 1980 to 1985. In this role, he was involved in enforcing federal civil rights laws, further cementing his legacy as a champion of justice and equality.
A native of Gary, Indiana, Clifford D. Johnson received his Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from Valparaiso University Law School in 1980, following his Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) from Valparaiso University in 1976. His educational background laid the foundation for a lifelong commitment to public service and justice.
Transition of Leadership
Following Johnson’s departure, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Tina L. Nommay will assume the role of Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana. This transition is in accordance with the Vacancy Reform Act. Nommay brings over 30 years of experience with the Department of Justice and is well-equipped to continue the work of the U.S. Attorney’s Office during this period of transition.
Nommay has been a trusted and dedicated public servant throughout her career, holding various positions within the DOJ. Her appointment as Acting U.S. Attorney ensures continuity and stability within the office while the new administration determines a permanent replacement for the role.
Reflecting on Johnson’s Legacy
Clifford D. Johnson’s career has been marked by significant achievements and unwavering dedication to upholding the rule of law. His leadership in the Northern District of Indiana has been instrumental in advancing justice and maintaining public trust in the legal system. Colleagues and peers have praised his commitment to fairness, professionalism, and the pursuit of justice.
As he steps down from his position, Johnson leaves behind a legacy of excellence in public service. His contributions to the legal community and his impact on the lives of countless individuals will not be forgotten. While his departure marks the end of an era, his influence will undoubtedly continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.
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