More than 1,200 former employees of the Department of Justice have signed a letter urging the U.S. Senate to reject the confirmation of Todd Blanche as Attorney General. The group, comprising officials from both Democratic and Republican administrations, criticized Blanche’s leadership style and decisions during his tenure as acting Attorney General.
Signatories highlighted concerns over a hostile work environment fostered by Blanche, marked by what they described as “demonizing” and “undermining” federal employees. According to the letter, Blanche’s tenure has precipitated a dramatic exodus of staff, with more than 16,000 DOJ employees leaving under his watch, leading to a significant loss of institutional knowledge and operational capacity.
The letter also addressed accusations of political interference, including “vindictive prosecutions” of opponents of former President Donald Trump and the “erasure of accountability” for the January 6 attack. Mishandling of high-profile cases, such as those involving Jeffrey Epstein, was also cited as evidence of Blanche’s problematic oversight.
Emphasizing the broader impact, the former DOJ workers warned that the department’s compromised workforce threatens public safety, civil rights protections, and national security. They called for an end to the “culture of fear” within the DOJ and urged a return to respect for career professionals who embody the department’s mission.
Blanche assumed the role of acting Attorney General following Pam Bondi's departure. Despite opposition voiced by the former DOJ staff, former President Donald Trump has publicly supported Blanche’s continuation in the role. The Senate Judiciary Committee scheduled Blanche’s confirmation hearings to begin mid-July, setting the stage for a contentious debate over his leadership and the future direction of the Justice Department.