Todd Blanche, who previously served as Donald Trump’s personal attorney, secured confirmation as attorney general following a contentious confirmation process. The Senate voted 50-49 to approve his nomination, with Republican senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski joining all Democratic senators in voting against him. The close margin underscored significant divisions within the Republican party regarding Blanche’s appointment to lead the Justice Department.
Blanche had been serving as acting attorney general since April, following Pam Bondi’s departure from the position. His confirmation culminated a lengthy standoff between Senate Republicans and the Trump administration. Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana cast the decisive vote in favor of confirmation, a decision that drew particular attention given his prior conflicts with the Trump administration, including his vote to convict Trump during the 2021 impeachment proceedings.
Several concerns emerged during Blanche’s confirmation hearings. Republican senators raised questions about his role in establishing a proposed $1.8 billion fund designed to provide compensation to individuals alleging government persecution. Critics worried the fund might provide benefits to individuals prosecuted for their involvement in the January 6, 2021 Capitol attack. Blanche pledged during hearings to curtail the fund’s scope, though questions remained about whether such commitments would be legally binding. Additional concerns were raised regarding Blanche’s handling of Epstein-related document releases and his involvement in settling a $10 billion lawsuit between Trump and the Internal Revenue Service.
Murkowski cited concerns about the politicization of the Justice Department and expressed lack of confidence in Blanche’s ability to restrain what she characterized as problematic impulses within the administration. Collins acknowledged similar reservations but indicated she believed Blanche would provide candid legal advice to the president. Before voting, Cassidy stated he considered Blanche the best option the president would nominate and believed Senate confirmation would provide leverage for addressing important matters.
Democratic leaders, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, opposed the confirmation, arguing Blanche’s appointment would enable continued corruption. Republican supporters, including Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley, praised Blanche’s qualifications and his conduct throughout the confirmation process.
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