Todd Blanche sworn in as U.S. Attorney General amid political controversy

Todd Blanche officially assumed the role of U.S. Attorney General on Monday, taking his oath of office in the Oval Office in a ceremony attended by President Donald Trump. The event was captured in a video released by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, showing Trump applauding Blanche after he completed the oath.

The new head of the Department of Justice secured a narrow 50-49 vote in the Senate for his confirmation, with all Democratic senators voting against his appointment. Opposition lawmakers voiced concerns about Blanche's close ties to Trump, suggesting his position could be used to advance the president's political interests.

Blanche, who previously served as Trump's personal lawyer in several criminal cases, including the one involving payments to Stormy Daniels, transitioned to government service. He held the position of acting Attorney General before this permanent appointment, taking over after Pam Bondi's departure. During his interim period, some of his decisions drew criticism, even from within Republican ranks.

Notable among these was the proposed $1.8 billion fund intended to compensate Trump allies for lawsuits filed during the previous administration. Democrats labeled this initiative a "bribe fund," questioning the use of Justice Department resources for litigation involving the president's circle. Blanche also granted tax immunity to Trump and his close associates, further fueling criticism.

To facilitate his Senate confirmation, the Trump administration later announced it would abandon the compensation fund project. The tax immunity agreement was also modified to be retroactive but not cover future declarations. With his swearing-in, Blanche moves from his acting role to permanently lead the Department of Justice, a pivotal position central to ongoing political disputes between Republicans and Democrats.

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La ceremonia tuvo lugar en el Despacho Oval y fue difundida en un video publicado por la secretaria de prensa de la Casa Blanca, Karoline Leavitt. En las imágenes se observa a Trump aplaudiendo a Blanche tras completar el juramento.