Epstein 'mistakes' and Trump ties: Key takeaways from Todd Blanche's confirmation hearing
Acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche faced a bipartisan confirmation hearing where he was questioned about his past legal representation of Donald Trump and his handling of the Epstein files. Blanche defended his independence while addressing concerns regarding his professional relationship with the President.
Why it matters
The hearing is a critical test of the Justice Department's perceived independence from the executive branch under the new administration.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Kayla Epstein Watch: Blanche grilled over handling of Epstein files and relationship with Trump Acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche has faced a tense bipartsian grilling on Capitol Hill, as he seeks a permanent appointment to lead America's top law enforcement agency.
Blanche was questioned about his personal relationship with President Donald Trump, the Epstein files, and a controversial settlement between Trump and the US tax agency that a federal judge nullified this week.
Trump dismissed his previous attorney general, Pam Bondi, amid a political firestorm over the Epstein files release. Blanche has led the agency in the interim.
Here are five key moments from Blanche's confirmation hearing.
Going into Wednesday's hearing, Blanche faced questions about whether he would operate independently from Trump, who has vowed "retribution" against his political enemies in his second term.
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