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 skepticism from some Republicans due to his involvement in implementing nearly $2 billion in anti-weaponization measures and 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.

Senator Cassidy acknowledged Blanche's imperfections during his floor remarks, stating, "Blanche is not perfect, and he will tell you this." He emphasized the choice before the Senate was not between perfection and Blanche, but 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 this role if confirmed, though she admitted she did not have full confidence this would be the case.

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., as part of the process leading to his eventual confirmation.

The confirmation vote was part of a late push by lawmakers to conclude their business and depart Washington, D.C., marking a significant moment for the Justice Department under the Trump administration.

Sources