Trump's criminal defense attorney takes key role in US Justice Department

By Gizem Nisa Cebi

ISTANBUL (AA) - The US Senate confirmed Todd Blanche, President Donald Trump’s criminal defense attorney, as the new deputy attorney general Wednesday, who will be responsible for overseeing critical federal law enforcement agencies.

Media reports said Blanche was confirmed in a 52-46 vote largely along party lines.

Blanche, a former federal prosecutor turned defense lawyer, will now manage day-to-day operations at the US Justice Department, including overseeing the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

His confirmation has sparked controversy due to his role in defending Trump against multiple criminal cases, most notably a New York trial where Trump was convicted on charges of falsifying business records. Blanche and Trump’s legal team called the case a misuse of prosecutorial power.

During his Senate confirmation hearing, Blanche expressed frustration over the legal battles his client faced.

"That’s power, and that’s power that’s corrupted," he said.

He reiterated his position on the unfair treatment of Trump by judges and prosecutors, reflecting his stance on the investigations.

Blanche's move from private practice as a defense lawyer to a top Justice Department role has raised ethical concerns among Democrats.

He has downplayed these concerns, however, saying that while his "attorney-client relationship with President Trump remains," he would adhere to his ethical duties in the role.

He also dismissed fears that he would face moral or legal dilemmas, saying "I don’t think President Trump is going to ask me to do anything illegal or immoral. I say that with experience and firsthand knowledge."