Washington — Early on Saturday, August 8th, 2026, the Senate confirmed Todd Blanche as attorney general in a closely contested 50-49 vote. Blanche, who previously served as President Trump's defense lawyer, is now the nation's top law enforcement official.

Blanche's confirmation faced significant opposition, with all Democrats joined by Senators Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska voting against him. His path to confirmation cleared 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, which was created 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 amid strong pushback from lawmakers.

Blanche expressed gratitude following the vote, posting on social media that 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 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 transition and mishandling of sensitive government documents.

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

Sources