Today

Todd Blanche Won’t Rule Out Comstock

Trump’s DOJ nominee left open using the Comstock Act to restrict abortion pills by mail.

from 7 sourcesUpdated Aug 7, 6:10pm ET

The reporting

A neutral summary of the key facts most sources agree on, drawn from reporting across the political spectrum.

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, President Donald Trump’s nominee for attorney general, told anti-abortion activists in a private call that Trump officials are working to make Dobbs “permanent in every single state.” Blanche indicated the Justice Department could prioritize nationwide abortion restrictions, including possible use of the 1873 Comstock Act to restrict mailing abortion pills. The recording surfaced as the Senate weighed his confirmation, with Republicans seeking a vote by the end of the week. Sen. Bill Cassidy announced last-minute support despite earlier concerns about Justice Department weaponization.

Analysis & opinion

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Dangerous nominationMostly Left

Todd Blanche should not be trusted to lead the Justice Department because his nomination threatens the rule of law and could advance a radical Trump-aligned agenda. His pledges and assurances do not erase the risk that he would use federal power in dangerous ways, including against abortion access.

Slate
Democracy Now!

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