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

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

Blanche faced significant opposition during his confirmation, particularly over the Justice Department's creation of a $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization" fund designed to provide payouts to individuals alleging they were wronged by the federal government. During his June confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, Blanche stated the fund was "dead" and that the department was "not moving forward" with the program amid strong pushback from lawmakers.

In a social media post shortly after the vote, Blanche expressed gratitude, 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 the handling of sensitive government documents following his term.

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

Sources