The U.S. Senate confirmed Todd Blanche as attorney general on Saturday in a 50-49 vote, elevating President Donald Trump’s former personal lawyer after Blanche had served as acting attorney general since April.
Republican Sens. Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska joined Democrats in opposing the nomination. Louisiana Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy cast the decisive vote after saying Blanche was the strongest candidate likely to win confirmation.
Blanche faced scrutiny over the Justice Department’s handling of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, as well as a proposed $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund and a tax-immunity agreement involving Trump and his sons. Before the vote, Blanche agreed in writing to narrow the immunity agreement and end the related payments, though critics questioned whether those commitments would be legally binding.
Supporters described Blanche as a tough and fair lawyer committed to the rule of law. Opponents raised concerns about whether he would maintain the Justice Department’s independence from the White House.
Source: Reuters, August 8, 2026.
