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

Blanche's confirmation faced significant opposition, with all Democrats joined by Senators Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska voting against his nomination. His path to confirmation cleared on Friday, August 7th, 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 creation of a $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization" fund designed to compensate individuals who alleged they were wronged 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.

In a social media post following 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 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.

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

Critics have raised concerns about actions that may have "further eroded the Department's independence," highlighting the contentious nature of Blanche's appointment.

Sources