Todd Blanche, President Donald Trump's nominee to lead the Department of Justice, 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 Trump's personal lawyer, faced skepticism from some Republicans over 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 will now serve as the nation's top law enforcement official.

Senator Cassidy acknowledged Blanche's imperfections, stating on the Senate floor, "Blanche is not perfect, and he will tell you this." 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 highlighted the need for an Attorney General who can "check the worst impulses of this administration," expressing cautious hope that Blanche would fulfill that role. However, some remain uncertain about Blanche's ability to depoliticize the Justice Department, which has been described as increasingly political.

Blanche 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 confirmation vote was part of a late push by lawmakers to conclude their business before departing the capital.

Sources