Nominee Todd Blanche Under Scrutiny Amid Epstein-Related Lawsuit

President Donald Trump’s nominee for attorney general, Todd Blanche, is under increased scrutiny. New Mexico has filed a lawsuit accusing the Justice Department of withholding records tied to Jeffrey Epstein’s activities at his Zorro Ranch in New Mexico. Blanche, currently acting as attorney general, and the DOJ are named as defendants in the lawsuit.

The lawsuit raises questions as Blanche’s nomination moves through the U.S. Senate. The handling of Epstein-related records by the Justice Department is causing contention. New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez, a Democrat, has accused the federal government of obstructing the state’s investigation into Epstein’s activities at his New Mexico property. In response, the Justice Department has stated that some records cannot be shared due to court orders protecting victim-identifying information.

The DOJ stated, “Federal court orders prohibit the disclosure of victim-identifying information carte blanche, and New Mexico has provided no lawful basis to justify such sweeping disclosures.”

The department expressed willingness to assist the state’s investigation within legal constraints. Newsweek reached out to both the DOJ and the New Mexico attorney general for comments.

New Mexico Jeffrey Epstein Lawsuit: What We Know

The lawsuit seeks a court order for the DOJ to release unredacted records related to Epstein and his Zorro Ranch. State officials believe these materials could identify additional victims, witnesses, and uncover possible criminal activities in New Mexico. The complaint indicates that New Mexico prosecutors’ requests for records have been ignored, denied, or delayed.

Torrez’s office claims that federal officials agreed in 2019 to cooperate once the federal Epstein investigation ended, but cooperation has not materialized. Public Epstein records reference Zorro Ranch and New Mexico extensively. State authorities are seeking documents related to alleged abuse and associates connected to the property.

Torrez stated, “New Mexico has a duty to protect survivors and investigate crimes committed in our state so that perpetrators can be held accountable.” He emphasized that the delay in accessing records is hindering the state’s investigation and delaying justice for survivors.

Who is New Mexico AG Raúl Torrez?

Raúl Torrez, elected in 2023, leads the state’s efforts to investigate Epstein-related allegations at Zorro Ranch. He criticizes past federal investigations for neglecting New Mexico. Torrez insists state authorities need to pursue remaining leads tied to Epstein and his associates.

Announcing the lawsuit, Torrez emphasized that delay in obtaining records hurts the investigation and postpones justice for survivors.

What is Zorro Ranch?

Zorro Ranch, owned by Epstein since 1993, was his New Mexico base. It spans about 10,000 acres and includes a large mansion and private runway. It’s one of several high-profile properties linked to Epstein.

When Could Todd Blanche Be Confirmed as Attorney General?

Blanche’s nomination progressed through the Senate Judiciary Committee along party lines, but his confirmation remains scrutinized. Some Republicans have expressed concerns about DOJ policies, including the handling of the Epstein-related records. The timing of a final Senate vote depends on leadership and scheduling. Continued controversy over Epstein files might increase attention on Blanche’s nomination.

Did Jeffrey Epstein Leave a Will?

Epstein signed a will days before his 2019 death. The document placed much of his fortune into a trust. This move became a legal issue for creditors and some accusers. The trust’s existence complicated the distribution of Epstein’s assets and impacted court proceedings. Despite public knowledge of the will, Epstein’s finances and related activities, such as those at Zorro Ranch, still face legal scrutiny.