Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche testifies as Senators press questions on Trump loyalty, Jan. 6 cases and Epstein files

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche appeared before the Senate Judiciary Committee on July 15, as lawmakers questioned his record and priorities ahead of a possible vote on his nomination to serve permanently as the nation’s top law enforcement officer. The hearing focused on his past work connected to President Donald Trump and on issues Senators said could raise questions about Justice Department independence and handling of sensitive federal cases.

Senators pressed Blanche on what they described as his relationship to President Trump during the period when he served as Trump’s personal lawyer, with lawmakers asking how that experience would affect the Justice Department’s approach going forward. Committee members also asked Blanche to address what they characterized as expectations of loyalty in the course of his nomination process.

The questioning expanded to Justice Department matters involving Jan. 6-related cases. Senators asked Blanche about his handling and oversight in that area, and sought clarity on whether any prior roles or communications could be construed as influencing prosecutorial decisions. Blanche was expected to respond during the hearing, with Senators returning to the theme of ensuring due process and consistency in the Justice Department’s prosecution of alleged crimes connected to the Jan. 6, 2021, attack.

Senators also asked Blanche about the status and handling of Epstein-related files. Committee members raised concerns about whether records tied to the late financier and related investigations were being preserved, reviewed, or otherwise managed appropriately within the Justice Department’s systems. The exchange centered on how the Justice Department would ensure that any relevant documentation is handled in a manner consistent with legal obligations and ongoing review processes.

Beyond casework, lawmakers questioned a proposal discussed in the context of Justice Department allegations against individuals who say they were targeted. The PBS NewsHour report described Senators asking Blanche about the proposed settlement fund and the mechanism that would have been used to resolve such claims, including what role the Justice Department would play and what steps, if any, were taken.

The hearing took place as Blanche’s nomination process continues in the Senate. The committee’s questions are likely to shape how other lawmakers evaluate his confirmation, particularly on issues of prosecutorial independence, record transparency, and the Justice Department’s handling of highly sensitive matters tied to both national political events and allegations involving prominent figures.