Acting AG Blanche Dismisses Suggestion Trump Will 'Pressure' Him on Prosecutions

Blanche praises ousted predecessor Bondi, denies view of Trump's statements as 'pressure'

Apr. 8, 2026 at 4:35am

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A photorealistic painting of the exterior of the Department of Justice building, with the facade bathed in warm, golden sunlight and deep shadows. The building appears quiet and contemplative, reflecting the serious nature of the political issues surrounding the new acting attorney general.The Justice Department headquarters casts a somber, introspective mood as the new acting attorney general faces questions about political influence.Washington Today

In his first news conference as acting U.S. Attorney General, Todd Blanche dismissed any suggestion that he would use the Justice Department to more aggressively target perceived enemies of President Donald Trump. Blanche praised his ousted predecessor Pam Bondi and denied viewing Trump's public statements urging prosecutions of his foes as 'pressure' on him.

Why it matters

Blanche's comments come amid concerns about the potential politicization of the Justice Department under the Trump administration. As acting AG, Blanche's handling of high-profile investigations and prosecutions will be closely watched.

The details

Blanche said he does not view Trump's public calls for prosecuting his political opponents as 'pressure' on him, and that he is focused on ensuring all cases are investigated 'to the fullest extent of the law.' He accused the media of ignoring years of 'weaponization' under the Biden administration. Blanche previously served as Trump's defense attorney in cases brought by former special counsel Jack Smith and Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg.

  • Blanche spoke at a news conference on April 7, 2026.
  • Trump announced Bondi's ouster as attorney general on Thursday.

The players

Todd Blanche

The acting U.S. Attorney General, previously served as Trump's defense attorney in cases brought by former special counsel Jack Smith and Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg.

Pam Bondi

The ousted U.S. Attorney General, whose departure remains a mystery according to Blanche.

Donald Trump

The President of the United States, who has publicly called for the prosecution of his perceived political foes.

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What they’re saying

“I do not view this as pressure. I do not view this as something that is going to keep me up at night, except to make sure that we are investigating every case that we that we have to the fullest extent of the law and using all the resources we can.”

— Todd Blanche, Acting U.S. Attorney General

“When I'm asked questions, or when I see reporting about shock and awe at this supposed weaponization of this Department of Justice, it means nothing to me, because it's completely false. People say the president wants to go after his political enemies. No, the president has said time and time again that he wants justice.”

— Todd Blanche, Acting U.S. Attorney General

What’s next

The Justice Department under Blanche's leadership will continue to be closely watched for any signs of political interference or targeting of Trump's perceived opponents.

The takeaway

Blanche's dismissal of concerns about the politicization of the Justice Department under Trump raises questions about the department's independence and ability to carry out impartial investigations, especially of the president's political foes.