Washington — Early on Saturday, August 8th, 2026, the Senate confirmed Todd Blanche as attorney general, appointing President Trump's former defense lawyer as the nation's top law enforcement official. The confirmation vote was narrowly decided at 50-49.

Blanche's nomination faced opposition from all Senate Democrats and Republicans Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska. However, Louisiana Republican Senator Bill Cassidy announced his support, clearing the path for Blanche's confirmation.

During his June confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, Blanche addressed concerns about the Justice Department's creation of a $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 confirmed the department was "not moving forward" with the program amid strong pushback from lawmakers.

Following the vote, Blanche expressed gratitude on social media, 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 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 concerning alleged efforts to subvert the 2020 presidential election transfer of power and handling of sensitive government documents.

Supporters of Blanche hailed the confirmation as "a huge win for President Trump and our country," emphasizing his "unwavering commitment to law and order."

Sources