Story perspectives

DOJ Nominee Blanche Won’t Pledge Independence on Prosecutions

8/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

Todd Blanche told Meet the Press on Aug. 16 he will consider President Donald Trump’s views on prosecutions and will not pledge DOJ independence.
Blanche said the DOJ follows the president’s direction within the executive branch.
Blanche supported President Donald Trump’s frustration over the case and U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro.
A judge dismissed the DOJ’s indictment of former FBI Director James Comey after ruling prosecutor Lindsey Halligan was unlawfully appointed.

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Story summary

Todd Blanche told Meet the Press on Aug. 16 he will consider President Donald Trump’s views on prosecutions and will not pledge DOJ independence.
Blanche said the DOJ follows the president’s direction within the executive branch.
Blanche supported President Donald Trump’s frustration over the case and U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro.
A judge dismissed the DOJ’s indictment of former FBI Director James Comey after ruling prosecutor Lindsey Halligan was unlawfully appointed.