Blanche pressed on Epstein files handling
Senators from both parties demanded answers about the Justice Department's management of the Jeffrey Epstein case files. Blanche defended his record but acknowledged that the department could have been more transparent. Republican Sen. John Cornyn of Texas expressed dissatisfaction with Blanche's responses regarding the Epstein investigation, while Democrats pressed for details on the administration's decision to drop the $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund.
Questions about independence from Trump
Blanche repeatedly sought to project independence, telling the committee "I am his lawyer, not his yes man" before quickly correcting himself. The exchange highlighted the central tension of his nomination: Blanche served as Trump's personal defense attorney before joining the Justice Department. He was asked about the department's decision to drop investigations into Trump allies and the indictment of the president's perceived political opponents.
Vote expected next week
The Senate Judiciary Committee is expected to vote on Blanche's nomination next week. With Republicans holding a narrow majority, Blanche can afford to lose only a handful of GOP votes. Several Republican senators expressed reservations but stopped short of declaring opposition. If confirmed, Blanche would serve as attorney general through the remainder of Trump's term.