In a strategic move that underscores his ongoing efforts to reshape the U.S. Justice Department, President-elect Donald Trump has tapped three prominent members of his criminal defense team for high-level roles within the department. The appointments come as Trump continues to battle a series of legal challenges, including cases tied to his attempts to overturn the 2020 election results and his retention of classified documents.
Trump has nominated Todd Blanche, his lead defense attorney in the hush money case involving Stormy Daniels, to serve as Deputy Attorney General. This crucial position, second only to the Attorney General, oversees the daily operations of the Justice Department, which includes more than 110,000 employees and agencies like the FBI. Blanche, a seasoned former federal prosecutor, is currently representing Trump in two key federal cases that are expected to reach their conclusions before the end of the year.
Blanche’s nomination has drawn praise from some corners, with former Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein describing him as a “highly credible” choice for the role. Trump himself lauded Blanche’s abilities, calling him an “excellent attorney” and a leader who can fix what he describes as a “broken system of justice.”
In addition to Blanche, Trump selected John Sauer, who played a pivotal role in convincing the U.S. Supreme Court to grant Trump broad immunity in the 2020 election case, as his solicitor general. This position represents the U.S. government before the nation’s highest court.
The appointments come just one day after Trump named former Representative Matt Gaetz as his nominee for Attorney General, further signaling his intent to place loyal allies in key positions. Both nominations will require Senate confirmation.
Trump has also named Emil Bove as Blanche’s top deputy, a role that will become crucial as Bove steps into the position of acting Deputy Attorney General while Blanche awaits confirmation. These moves reflect Trump’s ongoing commitment to reshaping the Justice Department in line with his political and legal priorities, following a period of tension with the institution.
