Senate confirms Todd Blanche as US attorney general, 50-49
Why it matters: Trump’s former personal lawyer now takes permanent control of a Justice Department roiled by firings, resignations and politicization fears.
The Senate confirmed Todd Blanche as attorney general in a 50-49 vote, cementing President Donald Trump’s former personal lawyer as the nation’s top law enforcement official after a bruising confirmation fight. Blanche had been serving as acting attorney general since April, after Pam Bondi’s firing, and was sworn in Monday at the White House.
Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska joined Democrats in voting no, leaving Bill Cassidy of Louisiana to provide the deciding Republican vote. Blanche’s nomination nearly collapsed over concerns tied to Trump’s proposed $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund and criticism that the Justice Department has become increasingly politicized under Trump. Blanche now inherits an agency strained by departures and court challenges.