On Saturday, August 8th, 2026, the US Senate narrowly confirmed Todd Blanche as attorney general by a 50-49 vote, marking a significant victory for President Donald Trump. Blanche, a former personal lawyer to Trump, will now lead the Department of Justice, having already served in an acting capacity.

Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana cast the deciding vote in favor of Blanche after two Republicans, Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, opposed the nomination. Every Democrat in the Senate rejected Blanche’s confirmation.

Blanche’s confirmation followed a contentious process marked by concerns from both Republicans and Democrats about his independence and the politicization of the Justice Department. Critics highlighted Blanche’s role in advancing investigations into Trump’s perceived political foes and the department’s creation of a $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization fund," which included provisions granting tax immunity to Trump, his sons, and his businesses.

Senator Cassidy acknowledged Blanche’s imperfections but argued that he was the better choice to effectively run the department under President Trump. Meanwhile, Senator Collins, who is seeking re-election, criticized Blanche for actions she said eroded the department’s independence.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer condemned the confirmation, accusing Senate Republicans of enabling Trump’s "pervasive, breathtaking misconduct."

Blanche has defended Trump against criminal charges brought by the Biden administration’s Justice Department and described those prosecutions as examples of the criminal justice system’s weaponization against the former president.

On social media, Blanche expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him by President Trump and appreciation to senators for confirming him despite the late hour.

Sources