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Attorney General Todd Blanche defends DOJ independence amid political pressure
Attorney General Todd Blanche is facing intense scrutiny regarding his independence from the White House. During an interview in Puerto Rico, Blanche defended his record, asserting his commitment to the rule of law and stating that he would not engage in unethical conduct. He emphasized that President Donald Trump exercises his constitutional power to issue pardons independently and does not require the Attorney General's permission or consultation.
Critics have raised concerns about Blanche’s previous actions as acting attorney general, including the approval of a $1.8 billion fund to compensate Trump allies and a deal granting immunity from tax audits to Trump and his family. The Department of Justice is also reportedly struggling with an exodus of experienced legal staff and a decline in public trust.
Separately, Utah Governor Spencer Cox revealed that Joe Biden had privately considered pardoning Donald Trump during a conversation with First Lady Jill Biden in August 2023. Cox noted that Biden discussed the idea as a potential way to de-escalate national political tensions, though no such pardon was ever issued.
Entities
Department of Justice · Donald Trump · Jill Biden · Joe Biden · Spencer Cox · Todd Blanche
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 7 SOURCES] Attorney General Todd Blanche maintains his commitment to the rule of law and ethical conduct. rocketnews.com · vinnews.com · krmg.com · www.bangordailynews.com · www.newsday.com · +2 more
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The president exercises the constitutional power of pardons independently without consulting the Attorney General. www.sanjuandailystar.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Joe Biden privately considered pardoning Donald Trump during a conversation with Jill Biden in August 2023. internewscast.com · www.dailymail.com
- [● 7 SOURCES] The Department of Justice is experiencing an exodus of experienced lawyers. rocketnews.com · vinnews.com · krmg.com · www.bangordailynews.com · www.newsday.com · +2 more
- [DISPUTED] As acting attorney general, Blanche approved a $1.8 billion fund to compensate Trump allies. rocketnews.com · vinnews.com · krmg.com · www.bangordailynews.com · www.newsday.com · +2 more
- [● 7 SOURCES] Blanche greenlit a deal granting Donald Trump and his sons immunity from tax audits. rocketnews.com · vinnews.com · krmg.com · www.bangordailynews.com · www.newsday.com · +2 more