WASHINGTON – In an unexpected turn of events, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche has expanded his portfolio within the Trump administration, assuming the role of acting librarian of Congress following the dismissal of Carla Hayden. This move raises eyebrows and fuels concerns about the politicization of traditionally non-partisan institutions.
Blanche, a prominent figure in legal circles, previously served as President Donald Trump’s criminal defense lawyer, navigating the complexities of high-profile cases and fiercely advocating for the former president’s interests. His transition to the second-highest position within the Justice Department was already a subject of considerable debate, with critics questioning the potential for conflicts of interest and the erosion of the Justice Department’s independence.
Now, Blanche adds another layer to his responsibilities, stepping into the role of acting librarian of Congress after Trump’s decision to remove Carla Hayden from her position on May 8th. Hayden, a respected figure in the library science community, made history as the first Black librarian of Congress. Her tenure, however, was cut short due to what the White House described as concerns about her emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed the media on May 9th, stating that Hayden "did not fit the needs of the American people." Leavitt elaborated on these concerns, alleging that Hayden had undertaken "quite concerning things" at the Library of Congress in the pursuit of DEI, including "putting inappropriate books in the library for children." These claims have been met with skepticism and criticism from many, who argue that they are vague, unsubstantiated, and reflect a broader effort to undermine DEI efforts across various institutions.
The Library of Congress stands as a national treasure, housing an unparalleled collection of knowledge and cultural artifacts. Its vast holdings include nearly 26 million cataloged books in 470 languages, representing a global tapestry of literature and thought. In addition to its extensive book collection, the library boasts nearly 78 million manuscripts, offering invaluable insights into history, culture, and the human experience.
The library also stewards the largest rare book collection in North America, a repository of literary and historical gems that provide a tangible connection to the past. Furthermore, the Library of Congress holds the world’s largest collection of legal materials, films, maps, sheet music, and sound recordings, making it an indispensable resource for researchers, scholars, and the public alike.
Beyond its collections, the Library of Congress plays a crucial role in supporting the legislative process through the Congressional Research Service (CRS). This nonpartisan agency provides objective and comprehensive background information to lawmakers on a wide range of legislative issues, ensuring that they have access to the facts and analysis needed to make informed decisions. The CRS is a critical component of a well-functioning democracy, and its nonpartisan nature is essential for maintaining public trust.
The appointment of Todd Blanche as acting librarian of Congress raises questions about the direction the library will take under his leadership. Concerns have been voiced about the potential for political interference in the library’s operations, particularly regarding the selection and preservation of materials. Critics fear that Blanche’s appointment may signal a shift away from the library’s traditional commitment to intellectual freedom and open access to information.
The trend of Trump administration officials holding multiple roles extends beyond Blanche’s appointment. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is currently serving as the acting national security adviser, head of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), and archivist of the United States. This consolidation of power in the hands of a few individuals raises concerns about the potential for overreach and the lack of accountability.
Similarly, FBI Director Kash Patel briefly served as acting head of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). While that post is now temporarily held by Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll, the initial appointment of Patel raised eyebrows due to his lack of experience in law enforcement and his close ties to the Trump administration.
These multiple appointments reflect a broader pattern of the Trump administration centralizing control and blurring the lines between different branches and agencies of government. Critics argue that this approach undermines the principles of checks and balances and creates opportunities for abuse of power.
The situation at the Library of Congress is particularly concerning given the library’s importance as a repository of knowledge and a symbol of intellectual freedom. The removal of Carla Hayden and the appointment of Todd Blanche raise questions about the future of the library and its commitment to serving the needs of all Americans. As the acting librarian of Congress, Blanche will face the challenge of navigating these complex issues and ensuring that the library remains a vital resource for the nation. The coming months will be critical in determining the direction of the Library of Congress under his leadership.
