Trump to Nominate Acting AG Todd Blanche Permanently

President Donald Trump announced Wednesday that he intends to nominate Todd Blanche, currently serving as acting attorney general, to lead the Justice Department on a permanent basis. The move follows Blanche's elevation to the acting role in April after the dismissal of former Attorney General Pam Bondi.

Trump made the comments during a private Rose Garden dinner at the White House, with video of the remarks shared by Deputy Chief of Staff Dan Scavino. He stated that formal instructions would be issued the next day to advance the nomination through the required process, which he expected to conclude swiftly. In a separate interview released the same day, Trump indicated he had no other candidates under consideration and described Blanche's performance in the interim position as effective.

Blanche, 51, previously served as one of Trump's personal attorneys, handling matters including the 2024 hush money case and federal prosecutions that did not reach trial. He joined the Justice Department as deputy attorney general before assuming the top post on an acting basis. Senate confirmation will be required for the permanent appointment, with Republicans holding a 53-47 majority.

During his time as acting attorney general, Blanche has directed several department initiatives, including expanded reviews of federal benefit programs and efforts to address what officials describe as prior instances of selective enforcement. One proposal involved establishing a compensation fund exceeding $1.7 billion for individuals claiming harm from government actions. The plan drew objections from lawmakers in both parties, particularly over potential distributions and its origins in a settlement tied to Trump's own legal matters. Blanche later confirmed to congressional committees that the fund would not proceed.

The announcement occurs amid ongoing Senate oversight of Justice Department operations. Blanche testified this week before appropriations panels, addressing budget matters and the status of various enforcement priorities. His prior confirmation as deputy attorney general passed along party lines last year.

Observers note that the selection of a former defense attorney for the role continues a pattern seen in prior administrations where personal and professional ties influence high-level appointments. The confirmation process is expected to examine Blanche's record on issues ranging from case management to departmental independence.