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Acting AG Defends Trump's Right to Direct DOJ Investigations

4/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

Todd Blanche, the acting attorney general, stated in his first press conference that U.S. President Donald Trump has a right and duty to direct the Department of Justice (DOJ) to investigate political opponents.
Blanche argued the DOJ should serve as an extension of the president's will and dismissed concerns about political pressure.
Critics, including Democrats and legal experts, worry the assistant attorney general position could be used for political retribution.

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Story summary

Todd Blanche, the acting attorney general, stated in his first press conference that U.S. President Donald Trump has a right and duty to direct the Department of Justice (DOJ) to investigate political opponents.
Blanche argued the DOJ should serve as an extension of the president's will and dismissed concerns about political pressure.
Critics, including Democrats and legal experts, worry the assistant attorney general position could be used for political retribution.