More than two years into the administration of Attorney General Eric Holder Jr., the top ranks at the U.S. Justice Department are nearly filled. Last week, the U.S. Senate voted, 55-42, to confirm James Cole, who left Bryan Cave this year to join the department as Holder’s second in command. Cole, whose nomination drew criticism from Republicans over his support for civilian trials for terror suspects, had been serving since January as the acting deputy attorney general. Sidley Austin partner Virginia Seitz was confirmed June 28 on a voice vote to lead the Office of Legal Counsel, which hasn’t had a Senate-confirmed head since 2004. In a prepared statement, Seitz said the post provided a “unique opportunity to serve my country.” The Senate also confirmed Lisa Monaco as assistant attorney general for the National Security Division, replacing Davis Kris. Monaco had been serving as Cole’s top deputy. Holder said in a statement that Cole, Seitz and Monaco “will provide invaluable leadership” and “play a critical role in protecting the American people, ensuring the fairness and integrity of our financial markets and restoring the traditional missions of the department.” Holder, however, said nothing about the one remaining vacancy for a major DOJ component: the Tax Division. — Mike Scarcella

CIVIL RIGHTS CASES GET A BOOST IN VIRGINIA

Attorney General Eric Holder Jr. regularly touts what he calls the “reinvigoration” of the U.S. Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Not only is this office once again open for business — it has never been stronger,” Holder said during an American Constitution Society event last month in Washington.

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