A group of Jeffrey Epstein survivors is urging the Senate to reject Todd Blanche’s nomination for U.S. attorney general, citing his handling of the Epstein case. The survivors claim Blanche failed to redact their personal information in released files while withholding details about potential perpetrators. They also allege he ignored investigative leads provided by survivors.
Blanche’s confirmation hearing is set for this week, with the Senate Judiciary Committee holding the first vote. If the committee deadlocks, his nomination could be sunk. The full Senate will then vote, where Blanche has a narrow margin for error. Survivors, including family members of Virginia Giuffre, have sent letters to the committee opposing his nomination, arguing his actions betray justice for victims.
Blanche has faced criticism for his role in a $1.8 billion settlement fund for Trump allies, including those involved in the January 6 Capitol riot. A federal judge recently ruled that the lawsuit leading to the settlement was improper, singling out Blanche’s involvement. Senator Thom Tillis, a Republican critic of Trump, will be a key vote in the committee, though his stance remains unclear.
Survivors like Jess Michaels and Liz Stein have detailed their experiences with Epstein and the investigation, claiming Blanche did not pursue leads they provided. They argue his confirmation would signal a failure to protect victims over powerful figures.