In a move that has garnered significant attention, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche has been appointed the acting librarian of Congress, an announcement made by the Justice Department this Monday. Blanche, who played a crucial role as Donald Trumpโs legal representative during his 2024 criminal trial, steps into the role following the controversial dismissal of Carla Hayden, who had held the position for several years. Her removal, orchestrated by the White House, has been criticized amidst claims from conservative circles alleging she promoted a โwokeโ agenda. This leadership change marks a significant shift within one of the nationโs most storied institutions.
Simultaneously, a peculiar incident occurred involving two other Trump appointees at the library. Brian Nieves, appointed as the acting assistant librarian, and Paul Perkins, stepping in as the acting register of copyrights and director of the Copyright Office, reportedly attempted entry into the Copyright Office but were unable to do so due to badge access restrictions. This incident was resolved without conflict, and both appointees eventually left without further issue, their departure following discussions with library officials and U.S. Capitol Police. Capitol Police confirmed that no formal barring or escorting occurred.
Focus now turns to the implications of Trumpโs appointments to the Library of Congress, as Senate Majority Leader John Thune and other lawmakers raise concerns about the legality and consequences of such actions. The power to appoint or dismiss the librarian of Congressโa position typically seen as a legislative branch roleโis being scrutinized as the Senate seeks to ensure that congressional authority and independence are preserved. Notably, an internal memo revealed that Congress is actively engaging the White House on how to proceed following these appointments.
Concerns are mounting over the potential impact of the new appointments on the sensitive nature of information handled within the library. Specifically, the Congressional Research Serviceโs typically confidential data could become more accessible under the current administration, prompting worries among lawmakers. In a letter signed by key Democrats, including Representatives Joe Morelle and Rosa DeLauro, calls have been made for an inspector general investigation into potential breaches of legislative privacy and independence.
The recent upheaval follows Trumpโs broader pattern of restructuring since his return to office, targeting figures seen as antagonistic to his agenda. Carla Hayden, the first Black woman to occupy the librarian of Congress position, had her tenure abruptly ended. Haydenโs contributions to the library have been widely praised, especially for her efforts to preserve Americaโs cultural heritage.
Adding to the tensions, the recent release of a report from the Copyright Officeโcompleted under then-director Shira Perlmutterโhas stirred controversy. The report challenges the tech industryโs reliance on copyrighted works in training algorithms, fueling debate on the boundaries of โfair use.โ Despite the reportโs importance, its release was overshadowed by the subsequent firings, drawing attention from Trumpโs supporters wary of tech industry implications on creative copyrights.
With these changes, Todd Blanche finds himself in a high-profile role within the Justice Department and Library of Congress, having previously defended Trump in notable cases. The broader political and legal community now watches closely as the situation evolves, aware of the broader implications these appointments may hold for the future governance and independence of the Library of Congress.