David M. Gaouette, a federal prosecutor since 1984, has been named the acting replacement for U.S. Attorney Troy Eid, according to the Rocky Mountain News.

Last week, Eid announced that he was resigning to begin a campaign for Colorado attorney general, recommending Gaouette, a 54-year-old who began his career as a police officer then went on to earn a law degree from the University of Denver. Law Fuel notes he was assigned to the Mountain States Drug Task Force.

Gaouette will serve until August 7 or until President-elect Barack Obama’s unnamed nominee is confirmed by the Senate.

Pueblo District Attorney Bill Thiebaut wants the job, according to The Colorado Independent. Other names that have surfaced include University of Colorado Regent Michael Carrigan, former Assistant U.S. Attorney Bob Troyer, current Assistant U.S. Attorney Jaime Pena, and Governor Bill Ritter’s deputy chief of staff, Stephanie Villafuerte.