Trump Taps Acting Attorney General As Permanent Pick Looms

Blanche steps in after Bondi’s firing, Lee Zeldin emerges as leading contender with Lake Lure ties

President Donald Trump has named Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche as acting head of the U.S. Department of Justice following the dismissal of Attorney General Pam Bondi.

The decision comes as Trump considers a permanent replacement, with Lee Zeldin widely viewed as a leading candidate. 

Bondi was removed on April 2 amid backlash over the Justice Department’s handling of files tied to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. She is expected to appear before the House Oversight Committee later this month for a deposition related to the case.

In a statement, Trump praised Bondi’s service while confirming she will move to a private-sector role.

Interim leadership

Blanche will oversee the Justice Department temporarily. Federal law allows the president to appoint an acting attorney general while preparing a nominee for Senate confirmation.

Blanche previously served as a personal attorney to Trump and held the No. 2 role at the department under Bondi.

Zeldin among top prospects

Zeldin, who leads the Environmental Protection Agency, has gained attention as a potential nominee.

A former congressman and Army veteran, Zeldin has been a consistent ally of Trump and played a role in defending him during impeachment proceedings. 

He also visited Lake Lure in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, meeting with local leaders and surveying storm damage — a connection that has drawn regional interest in his possible nomination.

At the EPA, Zeldin has pursued deregulation efforts aimed at expanding energy production, while drawing criticism from environmental advocates.

Role and scrutiny

The attorney general serves as the nation’s top law enforcement official, overseeing federal prosecutions and advising the president and cabinet. The Justice Department includes more than 100,000 employees and agencies such as the FBI and DEA.

Because of its influence, the role often draws political scrutiny, particularly during leadership changes tied to ongoing investigations or policy disputes.

Bondi’s departure after just over a year marks one of the shortest tenures in modern history.

(Disclaimer/fun fact: This reporter worked with Zeldin in 2011 when he was a New York State Senator.)