Todd Blanche sworn in as U.S. attorney general after narrow Senate vote

Todd Blanche, who previously served as President Donald Trump’s personal attorney, took the oath of office on Monday as the United States attorney general. The ceremony was administered by Judge Emil Bove, a former Trump lawyer, at the White House after the Senate confirmed Blanche by a 50-49 vote, with two Republicans joining Democrats in opposition.

Blanche, a former federal prosecutor from New York, has been acting head of the Justice Department since the dismissal of Pam Bondi in April. He now assumes full leadership of an agency that has experienced a wave of resignations and firings.

"I feel no pressure to placate the president and I see no problem with the president’s interest in Justice Department matters," Blanche said, describing the president’s involvement as a "right" and a "duty."

The confirmation battle highlighted concerns from both parties about the department’s increasing politicization. Critics noted the Justice Department’s ongoing investigations into Trump allies and former officials, including a recent indictment of former FBI Director James Comey.

Blanche entered Trump’s circle in 2023 after leaving his law firm to represent the president in several criminal cases, including two brought by the Justice Department under the previous administration. Supporters argue his close ties to Trump could enable him to better manage the president’s expectations than his predecessor.