Bill Barr, former Attorney General under President Donald Trump, has publicly urged Senate Republicans to confirm Todd Blanche as the next Attorney General. In an op-ed published in the Wall Street Journal, Barr described Blanche as 'well-qualified' and the best candidate to lead the Department of Justice (DOJ) effectively under Trump’s administration. Barr emphasized that confirming Blanche would provide necessary leadership and stability to the DOJ.
Blanche is scheduled to appear before the Senate Judiciary Committee for confirmation hearings on July 15 and 16. Republicans are aiming to advance his nomination before the Senate's August recess, although several Republican senators have yet to express their support. Notably, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) is reviewing Blanche’s record, particularly concerning a previously proposed $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund.
Barr's endorsement is significant, especially considering his past criticisms from Trump following the 2020 election. He argued that rejecting Blanche would not prevent Trump from appointing acting officials, which could lead to further instability.
Blanche's nomination faces opposition from Democrats and legal groups due to his previous role as Trump’s personal attorney during the 2024 election. Barr contended that Blanche's experience equips him to provide strong counsel to the president. A recent ethics complaint filed by various groups alleges Blanche misused DOJ powers and mishandled oversight of the Epstein Files Transparency Act, claims that have been dismissed by some legal professionals as politically motivated.
Blanche has been acting Attorney General since Pam Bondi's departure earlier this year and was previously confirmed as Deputy Attorney General by a narrow margin. If confirmed, he could serve as Attorney General for the remainder of Trump's second term.