Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche defended his independence and commitment to the rule of law during a closely watched Senate confirmation hearing as he seeks approval to become the nation’s next attorney general.
Eko Hot News reports that Blanche faced extensive questioning from lawmakers over his previous role as President Donald Trump’s personal attorney, the Justice Department’s independence, and its handling of the Jeffrey Epstein investigation.
Democratic senators raised concerns about whether Blanche could lead the Justice Department without political influence because of his years representing President Trump in private legal matters.
Responding to the questions, Blanche insisted he would carry out his duties impartially and uphold the Constitution without favouring any individual or political interest.
He told senators that he would not serve as “the president’s yes man” and pledged to reject any directive that conflicts with the law.
According to Blanche, if confirmed by the Senate, his responsibility would be to the United States and not to any individual.
He stressed that his previous legal representation of President Trump should not be confused with the independent role expected of an attorney general.
Blanche is seeking Senate confirmation after serving as acting attorney general following the departure of former Attorney General Pam Bondi.
President Trump later nominated him to permanently lead the Justice Department.
During the hearing, lawmakers questioned Blanche about the department’s approach to politically sensitive investigations, including matters related to the 2020 U.S. presidential election.
Blanche responded that no one, including the president, is above the law and said prosecutorial decisions must always be guided by evidence and legal principles.
A significant portion of the hearing focused on the Justice Department’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein investigation.
Lawmakers sought clarification on the release of identifying information connected to some Epstein victims.
Blanche acknowledged that mistakes occurred during the process and apologised to survivors affected by the disclosure.
He said the department acted quickly after discovering the issue and implemented measures to address the situation.
Blanche also defended the department’s broader review of Epstein-related records.
He stated that investigators had not found evidence linking Epstein’s trafficking activities to other prominent individuals based on the material reviewed.
However, he assured senators that any credible new evidence would receive full investigation.
The nomination has attracted criticism from several former Justice Department officials who questioned whether Blanche could maintain the agency’s traditional independence.
Reports indicate that more than 1,200 former Justice Department employees signed a letter urging the Senate to reject his nomination.
The signatories include former federal prosecutors and career department officials who served under both Republican and Democratic administrations.
Several Epstein survivors have also expressed reservations about Blanche’s nomination, citing concerns over the department’s handling of information related to the case.
Republican lawmakers also raised questions during the hearing on issues relating to departmental spending and accountability.
Senator John Cornyn asked Blanche about a proposed Anti-Weaponization Litigation Fund that had generated public discussion.
Blanche responded that the proposal had been withdrawn and reaffirmed his commitment to responsible financial management within the department.
He outlined several priorities should he receive Senate confirmation.
According to Blanche, the Justice Department will continue focusing on public safety, combating organised criminal networks, strengthening border security and improving public confidence in federal law enforcement institutions.
Republican senators defended Blanche’s qualifications, highlighting his previous experience as both a federal prosecutor and a defence attorney.
Supporters argued that his legal background prepares him to manage one of the country’s most important law enforcement institutions.
The Senate is expected to continue reviewing Blanche’s nomination before voting on whether to confirm him as the next attorney general of the United States.
The outcome of the confirmation process is expected to shape the future direction of the Justice Department under President Trump’s administration.
