Todd Blanche’s First Address to the Justice Department

Attorney General Todd Blanche delivered his inaugural address to the Justice Department’s workforce in the Great Hall of the department’s Washington headquarters. In a conciliatory tone, he pledged to “lead this department with integrity,” to uphold the rule of law “without fear or favor,” and to welcome disagreement as a means of improving decisions. He highlighted recent successes against violent crime, drug trafficking and cartels, asserting that the department had contributed significantly to the decline in violent crime rates.

Associated Press

Blanche assumes leadership after months of upheaval: mass firings, resignations, and high-profile investigations that critics say have turned the Justice Department into a political instrument. The agency’s workforce has been depleted, with USAJobs.gov listing more than 500 open positions. Blanche’s confirmation by the Senate was secured by a narrow 50-49 vote, with two Republican senators opposing him over concerns of politicization. Prior to his confirmation, he served as acting attorney general following the dismissal of former Attorney General Pam Bondi in April and had been deputy attorney general during the rollout of Jeffrey Epstein-related files.

Washington Examiner

In his speech, Blanche emphasized three core commitments: (1) integrity and impartial enforcement of the law; (2) respect for the judiciary while refusing intimidation; and a focus on the department’s “core mission” of public safety and protecting citizens’ rights. He cited the department’s collaborative work with other agencies in reducing violent crime and targeting drug cartels, and he promised to maintain a culture where disagreement fuels better decision-making.

Associated Press

• “Everything that I do will not be the right path or the right decision,” — General Todd Blanche, attorney

Associated Press

• “I promise you that I will lead this department with integrity,” — General Todd Blanche, attorney

Blanche Tries to Calm DOJ Ranks in First Speech as Leader

• “We will always respect the role of the judiciary,” — General Todd Blanche, attorney

Blanche Tries to Calm DOJ Ranks in First Speech as Leader

• “The violent crime rates in this country have gone way, way down. That’s not all the federal government, but we are certainly a big part of that success,” — General Todd Blanche, attorney

Blanche Tries to Calm DOJ Ranks in First Speech as Leader

• “I think disagreement is the only way that we make the best decisions as a department,” — General Todd Blanche, attorney

Washington Examiner