The US Senate narrowly confirmed Todd Blanche as attorney general on Saturday, August 8th, 2026, marking a significant victory for former President Donald Trump. Blanche, who previously served as Trump's personal attorney, will now lead the Department of Justice.

The confirmation vote was 50-49, with every Democrat opposing the nomination. Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana cast the deciding vote in favor of Blanche, while Republicans Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska voted against him.

Blanche had been serving as acting attorney general prior to the vote, but his nomination faced delays and opposition, particularly over the department's establishment of a $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization fund" and provisions granting tax immunity to Trump, his sons, and his businesses.

Cassidy acknowledged Blanche's imperfections but emphasized the choice was between Blanche and another acting attorney general who might not manage the department effectively under Trump. He stated, “Mr Blanche is not perfect, and he will tell you this, but the choice is not between perfection and Mr Blanche.”

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized the confirmation, saying Senate Republicans have "handed Trump an excuse on a silver platter" to continue his "pervasive, breathtaking misconduct."

During Blanche's tenure as deputy and acting attorney general, the department indicted former FBI director James Comey twice, New York Attorney General Letitia James, and the Southern Poverty Law Center, in cases considered by experts to be weak.

Susan Collins, who is seeking re-election in Maine, said, “While I believe Mr Blanche is a capable lawyer, the Department of Justice has become increasingly political. Mr Blanche has taken several actions that have further eroded the department’s independence, and that is the basis for my vote to oppose his confirmation.”

The confirmation represents a major win for Trump, ensuring his former personal attorney now oversees the nation's top law enforcement agency.

Sources