Key facts
- Attorney General Todd Blanche addressed the Justice Department workforce for the first time.
- Blanche vowed to lead with integrity and listen to staff ideas.
- He acknowledged that not all decisions would be correct.
- Blanche praised the department's work on violent crime and drug trafficking.
- His confirmation was narrow, with two Republicans opposing him over concerns about politicization.
Attorney General Todd Blanche delivered his first speech to the Justice Department workforce on Thursday, seeking to rally staff following a tumultuous confirmation process. Blanche, who previously served as President Donald Trump's criminal defense lawyer, pledged to lead the agency with integrity and listen to the ideas of rank-and-file employees.
Speaking in the Great Hall at Justice Department headquarters, Blanche acknowledged that he would not always make the right decisions but promised to work hard and be receptive to feedback. His address comes at a time of significant workforce depletion and amid concerns about the politicization of the department, particularly regarding politically charged investigations.
Blanche highlighted the department's accomplishments during the Trump administration, including efforts to combat violent crime, illegal drug trafficking, and gangs. He urged staff not to overlook the positive work done despite critical news coverage.