Todd Blanche Named Acting Librarian of Congress After Carla Hayden's Dismissal
Todd Blanche is appointed acting Librarian of Congress, replacing Carla Hayden, amidst ongoing controversy over her firing and the appointment process.
Todd Blanche nominated to be new librarian of Congress
Washington Examiner
Overview
President Trump appointed Todd Blanche, Deputy Attorney General, as the acting Librarian of Congress following the abruptly fired Carla Hayden. Hayden, targeted by conservatives for her 'woke' initiatives, was the first Black woman to hold the role. Blanche, a former criminal defense attorney who represented Trump in two cases, lacks library experience. Additionally, Justice Department officials Brian Nieves and Paul Perkins are assigned to key library positions but faced access issues on their first day. The Senate must confirm Blanche's permanent position, as lawmakers express concern over the appointments and potential improper handling of Congressional data.
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Analysis
- Todd Blanche, appointed as acting Librarian of Congress, has a background as Donald Trump's defense attorney, raising concerns over his suitability and experience for this crucial position traditionally focused on literary and archival matters.
- The recent dismissals of Carla Hayden and Shira Perlmutter by the Trump administration have caused significant unrest among Library of Congress staff and highlight worries regarding political interference in a role meant to uphold objectivity and inclusivity.
- There are reports that the new administration is attempting to assert control over the Library of Congress, including concerns over the access to sensitive Congressional data, which undermines the institution's independence.
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Todd Blanche is the Deputy Attorney General who served as Donald Trump's defense attorney in several cases, including the hush money trial. He lacks library experience but has been appointed to the role following Carla Hayden's dismissal.
Carla Hayden was dismissed amid criticism from conservatives that she was advancing a 'woke' agenda during her tenure as Librarian of Congress.
The Senate must confirm Todd Blanche's permanent position as Librarian of Congress, which typically involves a nomination by the President and a vote by the Senate.
The assignment of Justice Department officials like Brian Nieves and Paul Perkins to key library positions may raise concerns about the handling of Congressional data and potential political influence on the Library of Congress.
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