Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday regarding his nomination to the permanent position of Attorney General. During the hearing, senators from both parties questioned Blanche on his past professional relationship as a personal attorney for Donald Trump and his current management of the Department of Justice.
Democratic members of the committee focused on Blanche's independence, questioning whether his previous work for Trump would affect his impartiality in cases related to the January 6 Capitol breach. Committee members also requested information regarding his handling of investigative files related to the Jeffrey Epstein case and his position on a proposed settlement fund for individuals who allege they were unfairly targeted by the department.
Blanche defended his record and his capacity to lead the department autonomously. The hearing comes as part of the standard confirmation process required for the nominee to transition from an acting to a permanent role. The committee will next vote on whether to advance his nomination to the full Senate for a final confirmation vote.