The Senate confirmed Todd Blanche as attorney general in a narrow 50-49 vote, ending weeks of uncertainty regarding his nomination.
Key facts
- •Todd Blanche was confirmed as the 88th U.S. attorney general in a 50-49 vote.
- •Republican senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski were the only members of their party to vote against the nomination.
- •Blanche previously served as President Trump's personal lawyer and as acting attorney general since April.
- •The nominee faced criticism over a $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization' fund and a deal providing tax audit immunity to the president's businesses.
- •Blanche pledged to rescind the controversial fund during his confirmation hearings.
The U.S. Senate confirmed Todd Blanche as the nation's 88th attorney general in a narrow 50-49 vote early Saturday morning. Blanche, who previously served as President Donald Trump's personal lawyer and as acting attorney general since April, faced significant scrutiny over his independence and past legal actions. The confirmation followed a late-night session that extended into the early hours ahead of a scheduled recess.
By the numbers
Bipartisan Opposition and Concerns
The confirmation process was marked by concerns from both sides of the aisle regarding Blanche's ability to lead the Justice Department independently of the president. Republican senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski joined all Democrats in voting against the nomination. Murkowski cited concerns over the potential politicization of the Justice Department and a lack of confidence in Blanche’s ability to check the administration's impulses.
Controversy Over Legal Settlements
Much of the opposition centered on Blanche's involvement in a $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization' fund, which critics feared could be used to compensate individuals charged in the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack. While Blanche pledged to rescind the fund during his confirmation hearings, some lawmakers expressed skepticism about whether the commitment was legally binding. Additionally, concerns were raised regarding his role in a deal granting immunity from tax audits to the president, his family, and his businesses.
Path to Confirmation
Despite the opposition, Blanche secured the necessary support after receiving backing from key Republican holdouts, including Senators Bill Cassidy, John Cornyn, and Thom Tillis. Senator Cassidy, who cast the deciding vote, stated that he believed Blanche was the best option the president would put forward. Following the vote, Blanche expressed his gratitude for the Senate's work and the trust placed in him by the president.
Timeline
- AprilTodd Blanche began serving as acting attorney general.
- FridaySenator Lisa Murkowski announced her opposition to the nomination.
- Early SaturdayThe Senate confirmed Todd Blanche in a late-night session.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by BBC World, NBC Politics.
