Washington — Early on Saturday, August 8, 2026, the U.S. Senate confirmed Todd Blanche as attorney general in a tightly contested 50-49 vote. Blanche, who previously served as President Trump's defense lawyer, now leads the Justice Department as its top law enforcement official.

The confirmation faced significant opposition, with Senators Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska joining all Senate Democrats in voting against Blanche's nomination. His path to confirmation was cleared on Friday when Louisiana Republican Senator Bill Cassidy announced his support.

During his confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee in June, Blanche addressed concerns about a $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization" fund created by the Justice Department to compensate individuals alleging wrongful government actions. Blanche stated that the fund was "dead" and that the department was "not moving forward" with the program amid strong pushback from lawmakers.

Blanche expressed gratitude following the vote, stating on social media that 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 President 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 mishandling of sensitive government documents.

Supporters of Blanche argue that "The American people will be well served by his unwavering commitment to law and order," while critics warn of "several actions that have further eroded the Department's independence."

Sources