Todd Blanche has been sworn in as US attorney general, formalizing Donald Trump's appointment of his former personal attorney to lead the Department of Justice. The ceremony took place at the White House on Monday, according to administration officials.
Senate confirmation and political context
Blanche, 52, had been serving as acting attorney general since April. His confirmation followed a narrow Senate vote of 50-49 in the early hours of Saturday morning, with every Democrat rejecting his nomination. Republican senators Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska also voted against him.
The vote came after weeks of scrutiny over Blanche's role in Trump's legal defense and his actions within the department. He previously represented Trump in the New York hush-money case and other criminal matters before joining the administration as deputy attorney general in early 2025.
Departmental changes and controversies
Since taking over as acting attorney general, Blanche has overseen the departure of more than 200 prosecutors and agents who worked on Trump-related investigations. He has also advanced expansive theories of presidential power, drawing criticism from legal experts.
A federal judge recently sent findings to bar authorities considering disciplinary action against Blanche, marking a significant courtroom setback. The ruling added to a string of legal challenges the department has faced under his leadership.
Comparison with predecessor Pam Bondi
Blanche replaces Pam Bondi, who was ousted by Trump over dissatisfaction with the department's actions against his political opponents. Bondi's tenure was marred by controversy, including the botched handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files, which continues to shadow the department.
Lawmakers are still pressing for the full release of Epstein records, with Democrats accusing Blanche of following Bondi's playbook of stonewalling survivors and Congress. The issue remains a point of contention as Blanche officially assumes the role.
Reactions and next steps
Following his confirmation, press secretary Karoline Leavitt posted on social media, "Congratulations to a great lawyer and an even better man!!!" Blanche's swearing-in marks the second Senate-confirmed attorney general of Trump's second term.
As Blanche takes the helm, the department faces ongoing challenges, including balancing political pressures with legal integrity. His confirmation solidifies Trump's influence over the Justice Department, a move that has drawn both praise from loyalists and concern from critics.
