Legal experts and journalists are raising concerns over recent actions by the U.S.Department of Justice under Acting Attorney Todd Blanche.According to reporting by Adam Klasfeld, Blanche has allegedly sought to intimidate state and local bar associations, which are responsible for licensing and disciplining lawyers.This includes suing the D.C.Bar and attempting to limit state bars' authority over DOJ lawyers.

The Campaign for Accountability, which filed a bar complaint against Blanche, reports that these efforts are creating a 'chilling effect' on bar associations, potentially deterring them from investigating misconduct by DOJ attorneys.The pattern reportedly began under former U.S.Attorney Pam Bondi, who implemented a policy of non-cooperation with bar investigations, and has intensified since Blanche assumed leadership.

Critics warn that these moves may weaken the independence of bar associations and hinder their role in holding lawyers accountable, raising concerns about oversight and legal ethics nationwide.