The U.S. Senate confirmed acting Attorney General Todd Blanche as the next Attorney General on Saturday, August 8, 2026, following a contentious nomination process marked by opposition from a handful of Republican senators.

Blanche was confirmed by a 50-49 vote, with all Democrats and two Republicans, including Maine Senator Susan Collins, voting in favor. Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis initially hesitated to support Blanche due to concerns over a $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund. They demanded that the Department of Justice (DOJ) provide written proof that the fund was rescinded and sought revisions to an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) settlement to limit audit immunity for former President Donald Trump and his family.

The DOJ submitted a written proposal to Cornyn on July 27, but Cornyn returned it, stating that his demands had not been met. This disagreement delayed the Senate Judiciary Committee's markup initially scheduled for July 30, as noted by committee chairman Chuck Grassley.

Blanche, who became acting Attorney General on April 2 after former Attorney General Pam Bondi was fired by President Trump, faced criticism from more than 1,200 former DOJ employees who argued that he had undermined the department's independence. During his July 15 confirmation hearing, Cornyn questioned Blanche about the possibility of reviving the fund.

Additionally, Representative Ruben Gallego announced he would miss several votes to attend to a family emergency.

Despite the opposition and delays, Blanche's confirmation marks a significant step in solidifying leadership at the DOJ.

Sources