Ex-DoJ Lawyer Oyer Criticizes Todd Blanche Nomination

Former Department of Justice pardon attorney Liz Oyer testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday, urging senators to reject the nomination of Todd Blanche for Attorney General. Oyer stated that Blanche, who was representing Donald Trump, fired her after she refused to recommend restoring firearms rights to actor Mel Gibson. Gibson, an ally of Trump, has a prior conviction for domestic violence.

Oyer told the committee that her refusal was based on her professional judgment and that she declined to "rubber-stamp a political favor for a friend of the president." She indicated that this decision led to her termination from her role as US pardon attorney. The testimony occurred on the second day of Blanche's confirmation hearing, where he was questioned by committee members.

Todd Blanche is a lawyer representing Donald Trump and was nominated by Trump for the position of Attorney General. His confirmation hearing has drawn significant attention due to his past and present legal involvements with the former president. Oyer's testimony introduces a specific instance of alleged political interference in the pardon process, directly challenging Blanche's suitability for the high-level legal position.