Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche underwent rigorous questioning from senators of both parties at his confirmation hearing on Wednesday. He defended the Trump administration’s Justice Department approaches while seeking permanent appointment as attorney general.
Blanche, who previously served as President Donald Trump’s personal lawyer and has led the department temporarily since April, stated in his opening that the agency is working to rebuild public trust following what he called prior politicization.
He emphasized efforts to restore confidence, noting that recent actions had harmed perceptions of fairness. Priorities mentioned included lowering violent crime, stopping drug trafficking, addressing cartels, and pursuing fraud cases tied to public funds.
Republican Senator John Cornyn expressed ongoing reservations and declined to pledge support immediately. In contrast, Senator Thom Tillis pressed for assurances that a proposed compensation fund for claims of government overreach would not be reinstated, which Blanche affirmed.
Democrats raised concerns about a settlement shielding Trump and family members from IRS audits. Blanche maintained the deal was lawful and did not place anyone above legal standards.
Regarding the $1.8 billion compensation fund, Blanche stated it had not advanced, with no funds transferred or commissioners appointed, and indicated it was effectively halted.
On January 6 pardons, Blanche upheld the president’s constitutional authority to grant clemency for federal offenses, describing the actions as generous without personal celebration.
Blanche acknowledged issues in handling Epstein-related files but stressed victim protections and transparency in releases. He also rejected criticism of FBI Director Kash Patel’s travel and expressed full confidence in him.
Blanche denied any request from Trump to act illegally and affirmed he would not violate his constitutional oath.
His confirmation path remains uncertain, requiring broad Republican backing amid some hesitation in the Senate Judiciary Committee.
