Attorney General Todd Blanche addresses Justice Department staff amid turnover
Newly confirmed Attorney General Todd Blanche urged Justice Department employees to work together and promised to listen to their ideas as the agency faces significant staffing losses and political scrutiny.
Attorney General Todd Blanche delivered his first address to Justice Department employees on Thursday, seeking to reassure a workforce that has been reduced by recent resignations and dismissals. Speaking in the department’s Great Hall, Blanche said he would lead the agency "without fear or favor" and encouraged staff to share ideas and voice disagreement.
Blanche, who previously served as a criminal defense lawyer for President Donald Trump, acknowledged that he would not make every decision correctly, but pledged to work as hard as his colleagues and to consider their input. He highlighted the department’s recent achievements in combating violent crime, drug trafficking, and organized gangs, urging employees not to overlook these successes.
The speech came after Blanche’s narrow Senate confirmation, which faced opposition from two Republican senators concerned about the department’s perceived politicization. Critics, including the Justice Connection alumni network, warned that his statements would only be credible if matched by actions, noting past instances of employee dismissals over perceived disloyalty.
"Everything that I do will not be the right path or the right decision," Blanche said. "No one does that, but I do promise you that I will work as hard as any of you. I promise that I’ll listen to you."
The department continues to navigate politically charged investigations while attempting to restore morale among its remaining staff.