Todd Blanche faced a challenging confirmation process, but the Senate confirmed him as attorney general with a 50-49 vote on Saturday. The decision concluded a strenuous time, as Blanche had been serving as acting attorney general since Pam Bondi’s removal in April. Bondi’s departure followed criticism over her handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files.
Despite his confirmation, Blanche faced uncertainty in the weeks leading up to the vote due to concerns over his previous role as President Donald Trump’s personal lawyer and involvement in a contentious IRS settlement. The Senate conducted the vote late into the night, finalizing at 4 a.m. on Saturday. The vote reflected mostly party lines, though two Republican senators joined Democrats in voting against Blanche’s confirmation.
Senatorial Opposition to Blanche’s Confirmation
Every Democratic and independent senator voted against Blanche’s confirmation. These senators included:
- Angela Alsobrooks of Maryland
- Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin
- Michael Bennet of Colorado
- Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut
- And many others.
Two Republican moderates, Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, also voted against him. They expressed concerns over his actions as acting attorney general and his involvement in several high-profile issues.
Newsweek reached out to Senators Collins’ and Murkowski’s offices for comments via email on Saturday morning.
Republican Support and Concerns
Other Republicans, such as Senator Bill Cassidy and Senator Thom Tillis, were initially against Blanche’s confirmation. They changed their stance after assurances from Blanche that he would rescind the proposed $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund. This fund was part of a settlement related to Trump’s lawsuit against the IRS over his tax records.
Cassidy’s eventual support proved crucial. He stated that after discussing with former Attorney General William Barr, he was confident Blanche wouldn’t merely follow Trump’s directives.
Reasons Behind Collins and Murkowski’s Decision
Susan Collins issued a statement on Tuesday, acknowledging Blanche as a competent lawyer, but expressing concerns about increased politicization within the Justice Department. She outlined several objections:
- Blanche’s approval of protections for Trump and his organization from IRS audits
- His role in the anti-weaponization fund
- A reported promise to anti-abortion groups regarding mailing abortion medication
- The Justice Department’s attempt to indict Senators for constitutionally protected activities
Lisa Murkowski voiced her opposition on Friday, describing Blanche as decent yet expressing concern about the Justice Department’s direction. She pointed to the department’s handling of Epstein files and protection granted to Trump’s family as concerning.
Murkowski highlighted the need for an attorney general who would keep the administration in check. She expressed doubt about whether Blanche could fulfill this role effectively.
The confirmation sparked controversy, with Trump labeling Murkowski a “traitor” for her opposing vote on Truth Social.
Blanche’s Response to Confirmation
Following his confirmation, Blanche took to X to express gratitude for President Trump’s trust and the Senate’s late-night session. He stated he felt deeply honored to lead the Department of Justice as the nation’s 88th Attorney General.
Newsweek also contacted the White House and the Attorney General’s office seeking comment by email on Saturday morning.
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