Washington — Early on Saturday, August 8th, 2026, the Senate confirmed Todd Blanche as attorney general, appointing President Trump's former defense lawyer to lead the Justice Department. Blanche won approval in a tight 50-49 vote. Senators Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska joined all Democrats in opposing his nomination.

Blanche's confirmation path cleared on Friday when Louisiana Republican Senator Bill Cassidy announced his support. Shortly after 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."

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 designed to provide payouts to individuals alleging wrongdoing by the federal government. He stated the fund was "dead" and that the department was "not moving forward" with the program amid strong pushback.

Blanche's nomination faced criticism from Democrats and some Republicans over this fund and other actions perceived to have eroded the department's independence. Supporters highlighted his commitment to law and order.

The confirmation comes as former President Trump faces multiple legal challenges, including a New York state criminal case 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 efforts to subvert the 2020 presidential power transfer and handling of sensitive government documents.

Trump called Blanche's confirmation "a huge win for President Trump and our country."

Sources