Washington — Early on Saturday, August 8, 2026, the Senate confirmed Todd Blanche as the United States attorney general, appointing President Trump's former defense lawyer as the nation's top law enforcement official.

Blanche secured approval in a tight 50-49 vote. Senators Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska joined all Democrats in opposing his nomination. His confirmation path 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 the Justice Department's $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization" fund, which was designed to provide payouts to individuals alleging they were wronged by the federal government. Blanche told senators the fund is "dead" and the department is "not moving forward" with the program amid strong opposition.

Blanche faced criticism from Democrats and some Republicans over this fund and other actions perceived to erode the Department's independence. Despite this, supporters highlighted his commitment to law and order.

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

President Trump hailed the confirmation as "a huge win for President Trump and our country."

Blanche assumes office as the Justice Department navigates several high-profile cases involving Trump, including a New York state criminal case related to a $130,000 "hush money" payment 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 after Trump's first term.

Sources