Matthew Whitaker flew to Dallas last week to deliver his latest speech since U.S. President Donald Trump installed him as acting attorney general, an appointment embroiled in criticism and court challenges.

In the aftermath of the blow-up, Whitaker's public remarks in the last five weeks have been notable for what they lacked — any hint of controversy.

Whitaker's speeches, which have largely stuck to conventional subjects such as the opioid crisis, reflect the inconspicuous approach adopted by the 49-year-old lawyer since Trump named him as the nation's top law enforcement official.