Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche was confirmed early Saturday morning, August 8, 2026, following a razor-thin Senate vote. The confirmation came after Republican Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana announced his critical yes vote on the Senate floor, emerging as a last-minute ally after days of deliberation.

Blanche, who previously served as President Donald Trump’s personal lawyer, faced significant opposition from Republicans concerned about his involvement in implementing nearly $2 billion in anti-weaponization measures and broad IRS audit immunity for the president and his family. Despite these concerns, Blanche survived the confirmation process and is set to lead the Department of Justice as the nation's top law enforcement official.

During the Senate proceedings, Cassidy acknowledged Blanche's imperfections, stating, "Blanche is not perfect, and he will tell you this." However, he emphasized the choice was between Blanche and another acting attorney general who might not effectively run the department under President Trump.

Senator Lisa Murkowski expressed the need for an Attorney General who would "check the worst impulses of this administration," highlighting ongoing apprehensions about the DOJ's political direction. Others voiced hope that Blanche would fulfill this role but admitted a lack of confidence in the outcome.

Blanche had appeared before the Senate Judiciary Committee for his confirmation hearing on July 15, 2026, at the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, D.C. The swift confirmation vote was part of a broader effort by lawmakers to conclude their business and depart Washington.

Sources