Attorney General Blanche and independence from Trump
Todd Blanche was sworn in as attorney general following a narrow confirmation. He has since addressed Department of Justice employees and pledged to defend the Constitution and prosecute assaults on officers. Blanche has also stated that no attorney general should pledge independence from the White House.
COVERAGE BY DAY
TIMELINE
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18 AUG
TUE
Attorney General declines to pledge DOJ independence
Attorney General Todd Blanche stated in a Meet the Press interview that no attorney general should pledge independence from the White House. He also asserted that President Trump has not and will not interfere with the Department of Justice. Former U.S. attorney Joyce Vance and others discussed the implications of his stance.
L3
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13 AUG
THU
Attorney General Blanche pledges to defend the Constitution and prosecute assaults on officers
Attorney General Todd Blanche stated during a press conference that the Department of Justice will vigorously defend the Constitution and uphold the rule of law. He emphasized the importance of prosecuting anyone who assaults a federal law enforcement officer to the fullest extent of their abilities. Blanche also pledged to lead the department with integrity, focusing on its core mission to impartially uphold the rule of law and keep the country safe.
C3
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Todd Blanche addresses DOJ employees
Attorney General Todd Blanche addressed Department of Justice employees on Thursday. He thanked President Trump for his nomination and acknowledged the dedication of law enforcement personnel. Blanche emphasized that working within the DOJ is the best way for a lawyer to serve the country.
C2
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11 AUG
TUE
Todd Blanche sworn in as attorney general
Todd Blanche has been sworn in as the new Attorney General. The Department of Justice issued a new memo stating President Trump can assert executive privilege over conversations with private advisers. Blanche's confirmation was narrow, with concerns raised about his independence from the former president.
L16·C8·R1
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03 AUG
MON
Trump threatens to withdraw AG nomination
President Trump has threatened to withdraw Todd Blanche's nomination for Attorney General if Republican senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis block it. Trump also stated he would revive a $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund if the nomination is blocked. Senators Tillis and Cornyn have expressed concerns over a settlement Blanche brokered.
L4
