What is the standard for a challenge to the sufficiency of evidence?

A challenge to the sufficiency of the evidence is reviewed under "a highly deferential standard." U.S. v. McCourt, 925 F.2d 1229, 1231 (9th Cir.1991). A court must view the evidence in the light most favorable to the government and affirm if any rational factfinder could find the essential elements of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Id.; U.S. v. Adler, 879 F.2d 491, 495 (9th Cir.1988) (citing Jackson v. Virginia, 443 U.S. 307, 318-19, 99 S.Ct. 2781, 2788-89, 61 L.Ed.2d 560 (1979)).

Page 829