Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stated on August 5, 2026, that President Donald Trump has the authority to fire a U.S. attorney, specifically referencing Jeanine Pirro, who faced criticism from Trump for dropping charges against an Olympic canoeist accused of damaging the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. During a press conference, Blanche emphasized that the decision to retain or dismiss a U.S. attorney is ultimately up to the president. Trump's dissatisfaction with Pirro arose after her office abandoned felony charges against David Hearn, which Trump suggested was due to pressure from an unfriendly judge. Blanche did not disclose whether he was aware of the decision to drop the charges in advance but defended Pirro's overall performance in combating violent crime in Washington.
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Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche Comments on Trump's Authority to Fire U.S. Attorney
On August 5, 2026, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche discussed President Trump's authority to fire U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, following Trump's criticism of her decision to drop charges against an Olympic canoeist. Blanche affirmed that such decisions are within the president's power and defended Pirro's record despite the controversy surrounding the case.
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Blanche punts on whether Trump should fire Pirro: ‘He has the power to do that’
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche Comments on Trump's Authority to Fire U.S. Attorney