The U.S. Senate confirmed acting Attorney General Todd Blanche as the next Attorney General on Saturday, August 8, 2026, by a narrow 50-49 vote. Every Democrat and two Republicans supported Blanche's confirmation, with Maine Sen. among the Republicans voting in favor.

Blanche, who became acting attorney general on April 2 after former Attorney General Pam Bondi was fired by then-President Donald Trump, faced resistance from some GOP senators. Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis initially hesitated to support Blanche due to concerns over a $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund. They demanded that the Department of Justice (DOJ) provide written proof that the fund was rescinded and sought revisions to an IRS settlement to limit audit immunity for Trump and his family strictly to the plaintiffs.

The DOJ submitted a written proposal to Cornyn on July 27, but Cornyn returned it, stating that the demands had not been met. This disagreement delayed the Senate Judiciary Committee's markup scheduled for July 30, which was postponed by chairman Chuck Grassley until a deal was reached.

Blanche's nomination also drew criticism from over 1,200 former DOJ employees who argued that his actions have eroded the Department's independence. This was cited by some senators as a reason to oppose his confirmation.

During Blanche's July 15 confirmation hearing, Cornyn questioned him about the possibility of the fund being revived, highlighting ongoing concerns.

In related developments, Representative Ruben Gallego announced he would miss several votes to attend to a family emergency.

Despite the opposition and delays, Blanche's confirmation marks a significant step in solidifying leadership at the Department of Justice.

Sources