In 1989, Benson was appointed United States Attorney for the District of Utah. He was recommended to the post by his former boss, Senator Orrin Hatch after the then-United States Attorney Brent Ward stepped down. (The U.S. Attorney's Office of Utah has compiled historical information on those who have served in this position. Full Interview with Judge Benson regarding his tenure as United States Attorney). Benson's recommendation was further supported by Senator Jake Garn and by United States Attorney General Richard Thornburgh. He was sworn in under an interim appointment on March 7, 1989. He received a presidential nomination from President George H.W. Bush and confirmation by the United States Senate before being sworn in on August 8, 1989. The Senate confirmation was considered uneventful and non-contentious. Benson held this post until 1991.