Trump Taps Former Personal Lawyer Todd Blanche for Permanent Attorney General Role

U.S. President Donald Trump has formally nominated his former personal lawyer, Todd Blanche, to serve as the next Attorney General of the United States, setting up what is expected to be a contentious confirmation battle in the Senate. Blanche, who has been serving as acting attorney general since April, would become the country’s top law enforcement official if confirmed.

The White House submitted Blanche’s nomination to the Senate on Monday, weeks after Trump publicly announced his intention to make the former defense attorney’s appointment permanent. Republicans hold a narrow majority in the Senate, giving Blanche a viable path to confirmation, though his nomination is expected to face intense scrutiny from Democrats.

Blanche, a former federal prosecutor, gained national prominence as one of Trump’s lead attorneys during several high-profile legal battles, including the New York hush-money case and federal investigations related to classified documents and the 2020 election. Trump has repeatedly praised Blanche’s performance both as his lawyer and as acting attorney general.

Supporters of the nomination, including Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley, have described Blanche as a qualified legal professional committed to law enforcement and public safety. Grassley said he looks forward to overseeing the confirmation process and working with Blanche on Justice Department priorities.

However, Democratic lawmakers have voiced strong opposition, arguing that Blanche’s close relationship with Trump raises concerns about the independence of the Justice Department. Senate Democrats, including Dick Durbin, have questioned whether Blanche can act impartially after serving as Trump’s personal attorney and defending him in multiple criminal cases.

The nomination comes amid ongoing debate over the direction of the Justice Department under Trump’s second administration. Critics have accused Blanche of advancing the president’s political agenda while serving in an acting capacity, while supporters argue he has focused on restoring law and order and addressing concerns about the department’s operations.

If confirmed by the Senate, Blanche would permanently succeed former Attorney General Pam Bondi, whom Trump dismissed earlier this year. The confirmation hearings are expected to draw significant attention as lawmakers debate the future independence and priorities of the Justice Department.