Todd Blanche’s Podcast Announcement of New Role
WASHINGTON — Todd Blanche, the then-Deputy Attorney General, was recording a podcast episode with America First Legal when he revealed that President Trump had appointed him to the top law enforcement role in the country.
During his appearance on “The Arena,” he shared that when he checked his phone, he couldn’t confirm the news that he was set to replace Attorney General Pam Bondi.
“When we started recording this podcast with our friend Todd Blanche, he was the Deputy Attorney General,” noted AFL President Gene Hamilton. “By the time we wrapped up, he was reported as the acting attorney general. That’s just how things operate around here.”
Shortly after 1 p.m., Trump announced on Truth Social that, “We love Pam. She will be moving to an important and much-needed new job in the private sector soon. Additionally, the talented Deputy Attorney General, Todd Blanche, will be stepping in as Acting Attorney General.”
During the show, Blanche mentioned the mindset in his new role, stating, “We all want to make President Trump look good. If you do a good job and work with me, I’m going to look good, too.”
He expressed his hope to make a positive impression in his position, admitting, “I hope that goes well.” When asked about the criticism he and Bondi faced, he responded, “It’s good when people say we’re not doing enough. The Department of Justice should always do more.”
Blanche reflected on why he is in this position, saying, “I got a call from a man who was being bullied by corrupt prosecutors. He decided to run for president and he won,” speaking about Trump with a touch of humor.
The podcast will feature commentary and critiques of poor legal opinions, along with exclusive interviews with guests connected to the Trump administration.
Blanche, who previously served as Trump’s defense attorney in a Manhattan case involving “hush money,” shared insights about his upbringing and legal journey. He noted that attending night law school helped shape his legal career, stating, “If I hadn’t gone to night law school, I wouldn’t be the lawyer I am today.”
He took time to reflect on his family life, mentioning the challenges of balancing fatherhood with night school. “It was tough at the time, but it shaped who I am,” he concluded.
Having transitioned from a federal prosecutor to a private attorney, Blanche represented Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort before becoming Trump’s defense lawyer. He described it as a transformative experience that exposed him to “politicized” prosecutions.
He described current figures in the legal landscape as “bullies,” asserting that facing a bully could be effectively managed by “punching him in the nose. Or winning an election; both work.”
