President Donald Trump’s former personal attorney, Todd Blanche, was sworn in as the 88th Attorney General of the United States on Monday, August 10, 2026. He becomes the second official to hold the top law enforcement position during Trump's second administration.

The Senate confirmed Blanche in a tightly contested 50-49 vote on Saturday, August 8, following weeks of uncertainty surrounding his nomination. Senators Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Susan Collins of Maine expressed concerns about Blanche's ability to serve as an independent leader of the Department of Justice. Additionally, Senators Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), and Bill Cassidy raised objections related to Blanche's decision to approve a $1.776 billion anti-weaponization fund.

Despite these concerns, all three senators ultimately voted to confirm Blanche. The nominee rescinded the controversial fund the week prior amid fears it could jeopardize his confirmation.

Trump aide Margot Martin shared a video of Blanche’s swearing-in ceremony from the Oval Office on Monday afternoon.

Following his confirmation, Blanche posted on the social platform X, stating, “I am deeply honored by the trust and confidence President Trump has placed in me to lead the Department of Justice as our great nation’s 88th Attorney General. I am grateful to the Senate for staying late to complete this process.”

Sources