Attorney General Todd Blanche Discusses DOJ Independence

Attorney General Todd Blanche stated Sunday that he would not pledge to ensure the Department of Justice (DOJ) always acts independently of the White House. He argued that no attorney general should make such a commitment, noting that President Donald Trump’s views would be considered in decision-making. His remarks are expected to raise concerns about DOJ independence, which were central to Blanche’s recent confirmation battle.

Critics, including Democratic lawmakers and watchdog groups, expressed concern over Blanche’s nomination. Two Republican senators also raised apprehensions, citing Blanche’s ties to Trump as potentially compromising the DOJ’s independence. On NBC News’ Meet the Press, host Kristen Welker asked Blanche about DOJ independence. Blanche responded, “No, I’m not going to pledge that,” explaining that a president’s priorities should influence DOJ actions. He contended that a pledge of absolute independence might conflict with these priorities.

When questioned about Trump’s involvement in prosecution decisions, Blanche confirmed he would consider the president’s viewpoints. “And I hope every attorney general in history would not answer that question differently,” he added. Despite a contentious confirmation process, Blanche was approved by a 50-49 Senate vote, fueling warnings about potential DOJ alignment with the White House.

Blanche’s past role as Trump’s personal attorney and as acting attorney general before taking the helm brought immediate criticism. Opponents argued that placing one of Trump’s former attorneys in charge might undermine DOJ independence. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer stated that Republicans compromised the department’s independence by approving Trump’s former lawyer.

The watchdog group Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics (CREW) similarly warned that Blanche might prioritize serving Trump over the American public. Republican Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski opposed Blanche’s confirmation, expressing concerns about DOJ independence. Collins accused Blanche of eroding department independence, and Murkowski questioned his ability to oppose the administration’s harmful impulses.

Despite criticism, Blanche emphasized integrity in DOJ actions during Sunday’s interview. “We will prosecute without fear or any sort of favor,” he assured. Blanche dismissed claims of Trump’s influence over prosecutions, labeling narratives suggesting otherwise as false. He asserted that Trump has never and will never direct him to initiate specific prosecutions. Blanche also stated that a scenario where Trump asks for unethical or illegal actions “would never arise.”

On election litigation, Blanche indicated that the DOJ might pursue its controversial initiative to acquire voter registration data through the U.S. Supreme Court after unsuccessful lower-court efforts. The administration has attempted to access voter registration records from multiple states, citing election-law compliance investigations. Courts in 22 cases ruled against the DOJ, highlighting a lack of authority to demand complete voter databases. Blanche defended this pursuit as part of election integrity efforts, stressing the federal role in ensuring election compliance with federal law.

The issue of DOJ independence remains a sensitive topic. Some argue presidential appointees should align law-enforcement priorities, while others insist criminal investigations should be free from political pressure. Blanche’s comments and actions during his confirmation process are expected to continue scrutinizing DOJ operations under his leadership.