Washington — Early on Saturday, August 8th, 2026, the Senate confirmed Todd Blanche as attorney general in a narrow 50-49 vote, installing President Trump's former defense lawyer as the head of the Justice Department.

Blanche's confirmation faced opposition from all Senate Democrats as well as Republicans Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska. His path to confirmation cleared on Friday when Louisiana Republican Senator Bill Cassidy announced his support.

During his June confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, Blanche addressed concerns about the Justice Department's $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization" fund, designed to provide payouts to individuals alleging wrongful treatment by the federal government. Blanche stated the fund was "dead" and that the department was "not moving forward" with the program following strong pushback from lawmakers.

Blanche expressed gratitude on social media shortly after the vote, saying he was "deeply honored by the trust and confidence President Trump has placed in me to lead the Department of Justice."

The confirmation comes as former President Trump faces multiple legal challenges, including a criminal case in New York state court related to a $130,000 hush money payment made before the 2016 election, and two federal cases brought by former special counsel Jack Smith. These federal cases involve allegations of efforts to subvert the transfer of presidential power after the 2020 election and mishandling of sensitive government documents.

Supporters view Blanche's confirmation as "a huge win for President Trump and our country," emphasizing his "unwavering commitment to law and order." Critics have raised concerns about actions that may have "further eroded the Department's independence."

Sources