Higdon was appointed to his role in October, 2017. In Thursday's resignation, he thanked former president Donald Trump and senators Richard Burr and Thom Tillis, all Republicans, for helping him get the job. "I leave office with deep respect for the outstanding men and women who serve the United States Department of Justice in the Eastern District as prosecutors and as members of the support staff," Higdon wrote. "They are dedicated to the safety and security of our citizens, and their tireless work has made communities all across our state safer and more secure." You can read Higdon's full resignation letter below: