Washington — Early on Saturday, August 8th, 2026, the Senate confirmed Todd Blanche as attorney general, installing President Trump's former defense lawyer as the nation's top law enforcement official. Blanche narrowly won approval in a 50-49 vote.

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

Blanche faced opposition during his confirmation due to the Justice Department's creation of a $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization" fund intended to compensate individuals who alleged they were 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.

Blanche expressed gratitude after the vote, stating 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 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 mishandling of sensitive government documents following his first term.

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

Critics have raised concerns about actions under Blanche's leadership that they say have "further eroded the Department's independence."

Sources