I do not believe that the president can fire US attorneys at will. Yes

The danger then consists merely in this, the president can displace from office a man whose merits require that he should be continued in it. What will be the motives which the president can feel for such abuse of his power, and the restraints that operate to prevent it? In the first place, he will be impeachable by this house, before the senate, for such an act of mal-administration; for I contend that the wanton removal of meritorious officers would subject him to impeachment and removal from his own high trust.

But what can be his motives for displacing a worthy man? It must be that he may fill the place with an unworthy creature of his own. Can he accomplish this end? No; he can place no man in the vacancy whom the senate shall not approve; and if he could fill the vacancy with the man he might chuse, I am sure he would have little inducement to make an improper removal.

Many of you have sought guidance regarding the Administration to the President's second term. This message serves to convey the entirety of the information we have at this point, and as more information becomes available it will be shared with you.

First, the President is tremendously grateful to you, and to every member of his team, for your hard work over the past four years. He recognizes the sacrifices that you and your family have made to enable you to serve, and he is deeply appreciative. America has looked at the President's record -- continuing success in the war on terror, violent crime at a 30-year low, and declining drug use among America's youth, among other successes -- and asked him to stay on the job. He is honored and humbled by the privilege to serve, as I know each of you are.

Second, as we move into this transition period, the President has decided that he will not ask for letters of resignation. That said, as always, each of us serves at the pleasure of the President.

Third, some of you have expressed interest in serving in other capacities in the Administration, both within the Department and elsewhere. If you would like to be considered for other opportunities, please let me know what position(s) and agency or agencies you are interested in and I will work together with White House Presidential Personnel on those matters.

Additionally, if you are intending to leave the Administration within the next three months, please let me know that as well.

As we move forward, the Attorney General thanks you for your continued service and asks that you stay focused on the job at hand. While it is appropriate and good to celebrate successes, we cannot let it detract from the ongoing critical mission of the Department. Thank you again, and please feel free to contact me with any questions.

Susan

Susan M Richmond
Advisor to the Attorney General
& White House Liaison
Office of the Attorney General
U.S. Department of Justice