In a recent interview with The New York Post’s “Pod Force One” podcast, President Trump remarked on the potential nomination of Todd Blanche, the acting attorney general, for a full-time position. He indicated his preference for Blanche by saying, “I think he will be, yeah.” When questioned about Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida, Trump mentioned that DeSantis had never discussed the role, and Blanche was the only current consideration.
On a separate note, the Trump administration found itself in a legal battle over control of a Philadelphia slavery memorial. Reported by Mattathias Schwartz from the James A. Byrne U.S. Courthouse, the case was heard by a three-judge appeals court panel in Philadelphia. The discussion revolved around alterations to a memorial located at George Washington’s former residence, which commemorates enslaved individuals.
The National Park Service had previously removed placards and video displays at the site, aligning with an executive order from President Trump aimed at countering what was described as a “distorted narrative” that induces “national shame.” In response, the city of Philadelphia initiated a lawsuit to reverse these changes, leading to ongoing legal arguments following a judge’s order to restore the site. The administration appealed the decision.
“Changing historical displays is a curatorial task,” Gregory in den Berken, a Justice Department attorney, argued, emphasizing the federal government’s authority under a 2006 agreement.
The memorial is part of Independence Historical Park. It marks where George Washington lived while serving as the nation’s leader prior to the capital’s relocation. During the court proceedings, two judges appeared doubtful of the administration’s asserted power. Judge L. Felipe Restrepo, appointed by President Obama, questioned whether the government sought “unfettered discretion.”
Mr. in den Berken assured that the National Park Service had no intent to fully erase historical references, pointing to planned online displays acknowledging slavery’s role and featuring figures like Martin Luther King Jr.
Judge Cynthia M. Rufe earlier criticized the administration’s approach, referencing Orwell’s “1984” and cautioning against altering historical facts.
The legal debate centered around the specifics of agreements between the city and federal authorities. Some argued that Philadelphia might retain some rights to influence decisions regarding the site, while the nature of the legal dispute could suggest it belongs in another court.
Cara McClellan remarked on potential implications: “Just imagine if the government removed the Lincoln Memorial right before the bicentennial.” She warned against setting such precedent.
Judge Peter J. Phipps, appointed by Trump, seemed to support the idea that the story of slavery could remain without full restoration. Judge Thomas M. Hardiman implied that the site should continue to mention slavery, considering both the city’s rights and the government’s promise to exercise moderation in future alterations.
Mr. in den Berken maintained that the administration’s actions did not equate to falsifying history, asserting that omitting facts was not equivalent to denying them.