Trump Nominates Todd Blanche as U.S. Attorney General
President Trump nominated Todd Blanche as U.S. Attorney General on June 8, 2026.
Why it matters: Blanche’s confirmation could alter DOJ enforcement and legal tactics, vital for corporate and law firm legal teams.
- Todd Blanche nominated June 8, 2026, after acting since April 15, 2026, post-Pam Bondi dismissal.
- Blanche was Trump’s defense lawyer in Stormy Daniels hush money and classified documents cases.
- Senate has a 53-47 Republican majority; confirmation vote expected to be close.
- Blanche faced scrutiny over Epstein file management and probes into Trump rivals.
On June 8, 2026, President Donald Trump nominated Todd Blanche as the permanent U.S. Attorney General. Blanche has served as Acting Attorney General since April 15, 2026, when Pam Bondi was dismissed, as announced by the White House.
Blanche previously served as Trump’s personal defense attorney in key legal matters, including the Stormy Daniels hush money case and investigations involving classified documents. These details were discussed during the Senate Judiciary Committee hearings.
The nomination requires Senate confirmation. Republicans hold a 53-47 majority, making the vote potentially close, as noted by the Senate legislative affairs office. Concerns exist about Blanche's close ties to Trump and their impact on DOJ independence.
As Acting Attorney General, Blanche proposed a $1.8 billion "Anti-Weaponization Fund" to address perceived law enforcement injustices. The plan was withdrawn after criticism from lawmakers and public groups, according to the Department of Justice.
Questions also arose regarding Blanche’s handling of files related to the Jeffrey Epstein case and investigations into Trump’s political opponents, including former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James. Senator Adam Schiff criticized Blanche, saying he has struggled to separate his role as Trump’s lawyer from his DOJ duties, as stated during the committee hearing.
In contrast, Senate Judiciary Chair Chuck Grassley expressed support, describing Blanche as "well-qualified and committed to restoring law and order," per his official statement.
Legal professionals should monitor the confirmation closely, as Blanche’s leadership could influence DOJ policy, enforcement, and legal strategies across public and private sectors.
By the numbers:
- June 8, 2026 — Blanche’s nomination date
- April 15, 2026 — Blanche became Acting Attorney General
- 53-47 — Senate Republican majority ahead of confirmation vote
Yes, but: Some lawmakers and legal experts worry Blanche’s prior role as Trump’s personal lawyer may challenge DOJ impartiality, despite endorsements from Republican leaders.
What's next: Senate Judiciary Committee hearings are ongoing; a full Senate confirmation vote is expected in July 2026.