On Saturday, August 8th, 2026, the US Senate narrowly confirmed Todd Blanche as the new attorney general, delivering a major win for President Donald Trump. Blanche, a former personal lawyer to Trump, secured approval despite controversy surrounding a $1.8 billion slush fund.

The Senate vote was tightly split at 50-49, with every Democrat opposing Blanche's nomination. The deciding vote came from Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana. Two other Republicans, Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, voted against the confirmation.

Blanche's confirmation places a close Trump ally at the helm of the nation's law enforcement apparatus, underscoring the president's influence over the Justice Department.

Sources