Key facts
- President Donald Trump has formally nominated Todd Blanche for attorney general.
- The nomination has been sent to the U.S. Senate for consideration.
- Todd Blanche is currently serving as the acting attorney general.
- The nomination follows controversy over a proposed victim fund.
U.S. President Donald Trump has formally nominated Todd Blanche, his former personal lawyer, to serve as the nation's top law enforcement official. The White House submitted Blanche's name to the U.S. Senate for consideration. Blanche has been serving as acting attorney general since April.
The nomination follows criticism over a Justice Department plan for a nearly $1.8 billion fund for victims of alleged government 'weaponization,' which drew significant backlash from lawmakers. Republican senators, including Thom Tillis, had voiced skepticism, while Senator Chuck Grassley praised Blanche's qualifications and commitment. The panel's top Democrat, Senator Dick Durbin, blasted the selection.
Blanche, who previously defended Trump in multiple criminal cases, took over leadership of the Justice Department after Trump fired Pam Bondi. Critics argue Blanche has acted as Trump's personal defender, signing off on deals that benefited Trump and embracing probes into alleged mistreatment of Trump by the legal system. The Senate will also vet Donald Trump's nominee for the No. 2 position at the White House budget office, a key step in filling critical administration roles.