The U.S. Senate confirmed Todd Blanche as attorney general in a 50-49 vote early Saturday morning. This decision installs President Donald Trump’s former personal attorney as the head of the Justice Department.
Blanche previously served as a lead attorney on Trump’s defense team, representing him during the hush money trial in New York and in federal cases brought by the Department of Justice. He has spent time in an acting capacity at the department, and his full confirmation solidifies his authority to lead the agency.
Opposition to the nomination centered on concerns regarding his close relationship with the president and the potential for the department to drift from its historical independence. Two Republican senators, Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski, voted against the confirmation, alongside every Democratic senator.
The path to this outcome included significant controversy over a proposed $1.8 billion compensation fund intended for Trump allies. Under pressure from several Republican senators, Blanche formally rescinded the fund in writing. This move allowed the Senate Judiciary Committee to advance his nomination, clearing a path for the final vote.
Blanche expressed gratitude following the vote and indicated he is ready to begin his tenure as the confirmed attorney general. He takes control of an agency that has seen thousands of departures through resignations and other staffing changes over the past year. Supporters argue his legal background makes him effective at navigating the requirements of the role, while critics remain concerned about the department's future direction.