Washington — In a closely contested vote early Saturday, August 8th, 2026, the U.S. Senate confirmed Todd Blanche as attorney general, appointing President Trump's former defense lawyer as the nation's top law enforcement official. Blanche secured approval by a narrow 50-49 margin.

Senators Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska joined all Democrats in opposing Blanche's nomination. His confirmation path cleared when Louisiana Republican Senator Bill Cassidy announced his support on Friday.

Blanche faced significant opposition during his confirmation process, particularly over the Justice Department's establishment of a $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization" fund designed to compensate individuals who claimed to have been wronged by the federal government. During his June confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, Blanche stated that the fund was "dead" and that 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 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 power transfer and the handling of sensitive government documents.

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

Sources