Story perspectives

Former DOJ Officials Urge Rejecting Todd Blanche Over DOJ Abuse

7/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche orchestrated President Donald Trump’s campaign to weaponize the Justice Department against political opponents.
He faces Senate Judiciary Committee hearings on July 15-16 as a coalition of 1,205 former DOJ officials urges rejection of his nomination.
Chioma Chukwu said Todd Blanche used DOJ resources to investigate Jack Smith, Alvin Bragg and Jan. 6 rioters, blocked tax investigations of the president’s family, and approved a $1.77 billion Jan. 6 compensation fund.

History

Historical Context

On October 20, 1973 President Richard Nixon ordered Attorney General Elliot Richardson to fire special prosecutor Archibald Cox; Richardson and Deputy Attorney General William Ruckelshaus resigned, and Solicitor General Robert Bork dismissed Cox, prompting a public outcry that generated roughly 300,000 telegrams and launched impeachment proceedings. Today, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche’s Senate hearings echo that 1973 clash over DOJ independence.

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Story summary

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche orchestrated President Donald Trump’s campaign to weaponize the Justice Department against political opponents.
He faces Senate Judiciary Committee hearings on July 15-16 as a coalition of 1,205 former DOJ officials urges rejection of his nomination.
Chioma Chukwu said Todd Blanche used DOJ resources to investigate Jack Smith, Alvin Bragg and Jan. 6 rioters, blocked tax investigations of the president’s family, and approved a $1.77 billion Jan. 6 compensation fund.

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