Todd Blanche Confirmed as U.S. Attorney General Amid Controversies

Todd Blanche, previously the No. 2 leader of the Justice Department and former personal lawyer to President Trump, has been confirmed as the U.S. attorney general. The Senate voted 50-49 early Saturday morning, with all Democrats and Republican Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski opposing him. Blanche’s confirmation was largely secured by Republican Senator Bill Cassidy’s support, despite concerns over Blanche’s judgment and the Justice Department’s actions against political adversaries of the president.

Cassidy, who had lost his renomination bid to a Trump-backed challenger, stated his decision was not a referendum on the president but a choice between Blanche and another potentially less effective acting attorney general. He highlighted Blanche’s imperfections but deemed him suitable for the role under President Trump.

Blanche encountered various hurdles during his nomination process, including concerns over the department’s controversial $1.8 billion Anti-Weaponization Fund. Created after a settlement over Trump’s leaked tax returns, this fund aimed to compensate those alleging government weaponization against them. Facing legal challenges, Blanche clarified in writing on August 2 that the fund was terminated, satisfying Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis, both departing Congress.

Blanche’s nomination also included a second written statement regarding the Trump-IRS settlement, clarifying audit protections for Trump and limited parties. Critics, including legal experts, questioned the validity of these assurances in court.

Despite being Trump’s personal attorney since 2023, defending him in various criminal cases, Blanche has faced criticism regarding his leadership of the Justice Department. Allegations include pursuing campaign retribution against Trump’s adversaries. Legal experts and Democrats like Senator Alex Padilla have questioned Blanche’s continued loyalty to Trump’s interests rather than public needs.

Under Blanche, the Justice Department pursued actions against individuals like former FBI Director James Comey and organizations such as the Southern Poverty Law Center. Ongoing investigations, including E. Jean Carroll’s lawsuits against Trump, further scrutinize the department’s actions.

Judges have expressed concerns over the Trump administration’s compliance with court orders and factual accuracy. A number of high-profile cases have collapsed, challenging the department’s integrity.

Blanche’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, especially his interactions with survivors, drew criticism. Survivors described Blanche as uncooperative and urged senators to oppose his nomination.