Trump nominates Todd Blanche for attorney general amid controversy over DOJ fund

CNBC reported that the White House spokesperson said on Monday that the formal nomination letter had been transmitted to the Senate, with Blanche set to take over after six months as deputy attorney general. Blanche previously represented Trump in the 2024 classified-documents and Manhattan cases and has remained close to the administration. Republican leaders, who hold a majority in the chamber, appear to back the nomination, although no date has been set for a final vote.

The nomination comes as congressional Democrats are scrutinising spending lines within the Justice Department budget grouped under a "weaponization" heading. According to committee members, payments to outside law firms covered by the fund and certain post-election relocation expenses will be examined in detail. The White House said the fund is managed "in a lawful and auditable manner"; Democratic ranking member Adam Schiff said the process requires "independent oversight."

Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Lindsey Graham said hearings could open in the coming weeks and that Blanche will be asked to make commitments on congressional oversight and on the authority to appoint special counsels. The Justice Department said it is prepared to delegate the acting attorney general's duties to senior deputies as required during the process.