Trump says he will nominate Todd Blanche to serve as attorney general
By — Alanna Durkin Richer, Associated Press Alanna Durkin Richer, Associated Press Leave your feedback Share Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/trump-says-he-will-nominate-todd-blanche-to-serve-as-attorney-general Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Trump says he will nominate Todd Blanche to serve as attorney general Politics Jun 4, 2026 12:13 PM EDT WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump said Wednesday that he will nominate Todd Blanche to serve as attorney general, tapping his former personal lawyer who has aggressively pursued the Republican president's agenda while leading the Justice Department in an acting role. Trump said at a dinner at the White House that he plans to nominate Blanche formally on Thursday, according to a video of the event posted on social media by a White House aide. READ MORE: What to know about Todd Blanche, Trump's pick for acting attorney general "We are going to make him permanent attorney general," Trump said at the Rose Garden event. Educate your inbox Subscribe to Here’s the Deal, our politics newsletter for analysis you won’t find anywhere else. Blanche sought quickly to position himself as the favorite for the permanent job after Pam Bondi's firing in April, accelerating investigations into Trump foes and announcing a nearly $1.8 billion fund meant to compensate the president's allies for alleged political persecution. The proposed fund created a bipartisan firestorm that forced the Justice Department to scrap the idea earlier this week in an extraordinary about-face. Blanche was brought into the Justice Department as deputy attorney general and was elevated after Bondi's ousting over her failed efforts to prosecute Trump's perceived political opponents. Blanche insisted he wasn't auditioning for the permanent post but made clear through splashy moves since taking the reins his intent on proving his loyalty to Trump. WATCH: Trump administration 'not moving forward' with anti-weaponization fund, Blanche testifies Blanche's actions have outraged Democrats and other critics who accuse him of still acting like Trump's personal lawyer to carry out the president's campaign of retribution. The $1.776 billion "Anti-Weaponization Fund" also prompted backlash from Republicans in the Senate whose support Blanche will now need in order to be confirmed as attorney general. While Blanche has maintained he feels no pressure from the president, the Justice Department under his watch has advanced its pursuits of longtime Trump foes. Blanche has strongly rejected accusations that the Trump administration has politicized the Justice Department and has said he is focused on correcting what he contends were past abuses by the Biden administration. Former FBI Director James Comey was indicted in April over a social media photo of seashells arranged on a beach that officials said constituted a threat the president. Comey, who has slammed the case as politically motivated,
Given Trumps history of controversial picks, Todd Blanches qualifications as AG are questionable. A more balanced approach is needed.
Looks like were in for another round of drill, baby, drill, jokes the eco-warrior. Lets hope Todds got a thick skin and a heart of stone, because hes in for a world of... fossil fuel drama!
Exciting times ahead! Blanches background in law and public service could bring a fresh perspective to the AG role. Lets see how he stacks up against the job requirements.
As a scientist, I believe its crucial that we approach important decisions with a clear understanding of the facts and the potential consequences. Will Todd Blanches background and experience equip him with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively serve as Attorney General and uphold the rule of law?
Its interesting to see Trumps choice of Todd Blanche for the role of attorney general. While Blanche has experience in law enforcement and has worked with Trump in the past, some people have raised concerns about his lack of legal experience and his past involvement with the controversial Access Hollywood incident. It will be interesting to see how he performs in this high-profile role and whether he can navigate the complex and often polarizing world of federal law enforcement.
Conservative perspective: Trumps pick for AG is a reflection of his commitment to law and order. While qualifications are important, we must also consider his track record on judicial appointments and his vision for the department.
As a skeptic, Im wary of relying on a single persons background to make a decision. While Todd Blanche may have experience, we should also consider his political affiliations and track record. Its important to have a diverse team of experts who can bring different perspectives to the table.
Looks like Trumps got a knack for picking law enforcement buddies for high-profile positions. Guess well just have to see if Blanche can keep up with his controversial policies.
Drill, baby, drill? Not on my watch! Todd Blanches appointment is a green light for fossil fuel madness. We need leaders who prioritize the planet, not drill bits. Time to hit the brakes on climate change!
Is it possible to have a balanced approach that prioritizes environmental stewardship while also considering economic development? Or must we choose between protecting the planet and growing our economy? What are your thoughts on this?