Overview
- Six Democratic senators sent a Jan. 28 letter accusing Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche of a conflict of interest and requiring documents and sworn answers by Feb. 11.
- The letter cites ProPublica’s reporting that Blanche held at least about $159,000 in crypto when he issued an April 7, 2025 memo disbanding the National Cryptocurrency Enforcement Team and scaling back platform-focused cases.
- Blanche had pledged in February 2025 to divest within 90 days and to recuse from matters directly affecting his crypto, and senators now seek records on approvals, timing, and any contacts with industry before the policy shift.
- The lawmakers also question whether Blanche’s divestment met ethics requirements, noting reporting that he sold or transferred assets to relatives and that key transactions occurred weeks to months after the memo.
- A DOJ spokesperson said Blanche’s actions were “appropriately flagged, addressed and cleared in advance,” as the Campaign Legal Center urged an inspector general investigation and cited an estimated 34% rise in his bitcoin value before divestment, alongside senators’ reference to a 2025 illicit-activity surge.