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The U.S. Senate confirmed Todd Blanche, former criminal defense attorney for Donald Trump, as Deputy Attorney General in a 52-46 vote, with all Democrats opposing. Blanche will oversee 93 U.S. Attorneys, the FBI, DEA, ATF, and U.S. Marshals Service.
Blanche’s former law partner, Emil Bove, who temporarily held the role, previously led the dismissal of politically sensitive cases. Under his tenure, top FBI officials and prosecutors handling cases against Trump and Capitol rioters were fired. He also ordered the dismissal of corruption charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams, prompting multiple prosecutor resignations. Bove will now serve as Principal Associate Deputy Attorney General.
Attorney General Pam Bondi, on her first day, directed the Deputy Attorney General’s office to establish a "weaponization working group" to review cases against Trump, including charges related to classified documents, election interference, and his conviction for falsifying records.
During his confirmation hearing, Blanche avoided questions about whether he would recuse himself from cases he previously defended Trump in. His appointment has raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the Justice Department’s impartiality.
Blanche’s confirmation marks a significant shift in the Justice Department’s leadership, raising questions about how politically charged cases will be handled moving forward.
