The U.S. Senate has confirmed Todd Blanche as the nation’s next attorney general, concluding a tightly contested confirmation process that saw rare opposition from within his own party. The final vote, which occurred early Saturday morning, was 50-49, with two Republican senators joining all Democrats in voting against his nomination.
Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana cast the decisive vote in favor of Blanche’s confirmation. His support, announced Friday, came shortly after Senators Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Susan Collins of Maine declared their opposition. The absence of Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky due to health reasons meant that Cassidy’s vote was critical for Blanche’s advancement.
Blanche, who previously served as President Donald Trump’s personal defense lawyer, had been serving as the acting attorney general since April, following the removal of Pam Bondi. Trump had announced his intention to nominate Blanche for the permanent position in June.
The confirmation process was marked by significant debate and negotiation, particularly concerning the Department of Justice’s establishment of a $1.8 billion “anti-weaponization” fund. This fund was part of a settlement agreement between the department and Trump, resolving a lawsuit over the leak of his tax returns. The settlement also included a provision granting broad immunity to Trump, his family, and his businesses from tax audits and investigations.
During his confirmation hearing, Blanche assured senators that the “anti-weaponization” fund was effectively defunct, stating that the department was not proceeding with the program. He reiterated this position, confirming in writing that “there is no Fund.” However, Democrats and some Republicans expressed lingering concerns that the fund could be revived after his confirmation.
Senators John Cornyn of Texas and Thom Tillis of North Carolina had initially threatened to block Blanche’s nomination over these settlement provisions. However, they ultimately lent their support after receiving written assurances from Blanche regarding the “anti-weaponization” fund. Despite these assurances, Senators Collins and Murkowski maintained their opposition, citing concerns about the politicization of the Justice Department under the Trump administration and Blanche’s role in the controversial settlement.
Murkowski specifically voiced concerns that the fund might be reinstated once the Senate’s leverage through the confirmation vote was removed. Cassidy, while ultimately voting to confirm Blanche, also acknowledged sharing concerns about the Justice Department’s direction and the settlement, but stated his vote was a choice between Blanche and the possibility of a less qualified successor.
The confirmation of Blanche to lead the Justice Department comes at a time when the department has faced scrutiny over alleged politicization and vacancies. His ascent to the role, after serving as deputy attorney general and then acting attorney general, signifies a key appointment for the Trump administration.
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