Washington — Early on Saturday, August 8, 2026, the Senate confirmed Todd Blanche as attorney general, appointing President Trump's former defense lawyer to lead the Justice Department. The confirmation passed narrowly with a 50-49 vote.

Senators Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska joined all Democrats in opposing Blanche's nomination. His confirmation path cleared on Friday when Louisiana Republican Senator Bill Cassidy announced his support.

Blanche faced significant opposition during his confirmation process, particularly over the Justice Department's creation of a $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization" fund designed to provide payouts to individuals who alleged they were wronged by the federal government. During his June confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, Blanche stated that the fund was "dead" and that the department was "not moving forward" with the program amid strong pushback from lawmakers.

In a social media post following the vote, Blanche expressed gratitude, saying he was "deeply honored by the trust and confidence President Trump has placed in me to lead the Department of Justice."

The confirmation comes as Trump faces multiple legal challenges, including a criminal case in New York state court related to a $130,000 "hush money" payment made before the 2016 election, and two federal cases brought by former special counsel Jack Smith. These federal cases involve allegations of efforts to subvert the transfer of presidential power after the 2020 election and issues related to handling sensitive government documents.

Supporters of Blanche hailed the confirmation as "a huge win for President Trump and our country," emphasizing his "unwavering commitment to law and order." Critics, however, raised concerns about actions that they say have "further eroded the Department's independence."

Sources