Acting AG Blanche Claims Trump Has Right to Influence DOJ Investigations

Department of Justice Executive Oversight·April 7 – April 8, 2026

21 days ago

Acting AG Blanche Claims Trump Has Right to Influence DOJ Investigations

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stated that President Trump has the right and duty to influence federal investigations. Blanche argued that the president holds executive authority over the Department of Justice to shape inquiries into individuals who previously investigated him. While Blanche denied feeling pressure to seek political retribution, he defended the use of department resources to investigate perceived enemies. Blanche emphasized his fidelity to the president's agenda while asserting that the president can direct the department's focus. This stance reinforces the administration's claim of broad executive control over law enforcement priorities.

Acting DOJ chief Blanche says Trump has 'right' to influence investigationsTrump's Acting AG Defends President's 'Right' And 'Duty' To Investigate His EnemiesBlanche Denies Pressure as DoJ Chief to Go After Trump's Enemies

Key Statements

HHuffPost

“Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche states the president has a right and duty to investigate political enemies using all available Department of Justice resources.”

This quote explicitly states the administration's intent to use the DOJ for political purposes.

RReuters

“Blanche asserted President Trump has the right to influence federal investigations into individuals who previously investigated him, claiming executive authority over the DOJ.”

This identifies the specific targets of the new executive oversight policy.

News

Trump has 'right' to influence investigations, says acting AG Blanche

ReutersCenter

Trump's Acting AG Defends President's 'Right' And 'Duty' To Investigate His Enemies

HuffPostLeft

Acting DOJ chief Blanche says Trump has 'right' to influence investigations

ReutersCenter

Blanche Denies Pressure as DoJ Chief to Go After Trump's Enemies

Bloomberg BusinessCenter Left

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