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'Absolute distortion' of norms: Former U.S. attorney slams AG Blanche 

17 AUG 2026 · 23:52 ET·10:21·11.4K VIEWS·0.1× USUAL PACE

Former U.S. Attorney Barbara McQuade criticized Attorney General Todd Blanche's refusal to pledge Justice Department independence from the White House, calling it an 'absolute distortion' of post-Watergate norms. Blanche stated he would not pledge independence, arguing the president appointing him does not mean he is 'owned' by the president, but also indicated he would consider the President's views on individual prosecutions, which McQuade argues blurs the line between executive authority and directing prosecutions for political reasons.

WHY IT MATTERS

The Attorney General's pledge, or lack thereof, regarding independence from the White House directly impacts the Justice Department's ability to conduct impartial investigations and prosecutions, particularly concerning potential actions against political figures.

TODD BLANCHE DOJ INDEPENDENCE WATERGATE BARBARA MCQUADE DONALD TRUMP

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