Trump's Attorney General Pick Faces Senate Questions
Todd Blanche is Trump's nominee for attorney general. He testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday.
Blanche was Trump's personal criminal defense lawyer before this. He is currently leading the Justice Department in an acting role.
Blanche said he is pleased to testify. He said the leaders are keeping America safe.
Senators questioned Blanche about ICE agents at polling sites. ICE is the US agency that enforces immigration laws.
They also asked about Kash Patel's conduct. Patel is Trump's nominee for FBI director.
Blanche said he has full faith in Patel. Senators pressed Blanche on a $1.8 billion fund.
The fund is tied to a settlement in Trump's IRS lawsuit. Lawmakers also asked about Epstein files that exposed victims' identities.
Senator Sheldon Whitehouse questioned Patel's conduct. This included remarks about travel and alleged drinking. Senator Dick Durbin questioned whether Blanche can act independently from Trump.
Key Terms 3
- ICE US agency that enforces immigration laws.
- attorney general Top law enforcement official in the US government.
- Senate Judiciary Committee Group of senators who review judicial and legal nominees.