On Saturday, August 8th, 2026, the US Senate narrowly confirmed Todd Blanche as attorney general in a 50-49 vote, marking a significant victory for former President Donald Trump. Blanche, who previously served as Trump's personal lawyer, had been acting attorney general prior to his confirmation.

Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana cast the deciding vote in favor of Blanche after Senators Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska opposed the nomination. Every Democrat voted against Blanche's confirmation.

Blanche faced criticism from both Democrats and some Republicans over the Department of Justice's creation of a $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization fund" and provisions granting tax immunity to Trump, his sons, and his businesses. Collins, who is seeking re-election in Maine, stated, "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."

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer accused Senate Republicans of enabling Trump to continue what he described as "pervasive, breathtaking misconduct" by confirming Blanche. 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 viewed by some experts as weak.

Senator Cassidy acknowledged Blanche's imperfections but argued the choice was between Blanche and another acting attorney general who might not manage the department effectively under Trump.

This confirmation ends weeks of uncertainty over Blanche’s nomination and places a close Trump ally at the helm of the nation’s top law enforcement agency.

Sources