Todd Blanche Nomination Faces Senate Scrutiny Over DOJ Subpoenas

Senate Democrats on the Judiciary Committee sent a letter to acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, President Donald Trump’s nominee for attorney general, demanding answers about subpoenas issued to New York Times journalists who reported on the president’s jet security. The Democrats questioned whether the Justice Department acted in bad faith, concealed subpoena notices and intimidated reporters, and asked if Trump or White House aides ordered the subpoenas. After a federal judge raised concerns, the Justice Department withdrew the subpoenas, and the committee requested a briefing on compliance with internal rules.

A former federal director, William S. Becker, wrote an op‑ed urging Congress to reject Blanche’s nomination, alleging that his actions could amplify Trump’s alleged abuses. Becker cited Blanche’s involvement in the release of Epstein files, support for a settlement rewarding Jan. 6 rioters, and the use of the Justice Department as a personal weapon against political opponents. Two Republican senators, John Cornyn and Thom Tillis, have expressed uncertainty about the nomination, while Democrats remain unified in opposition.