Senate Confirms Todd Blanche as Attorney General in 50-49 Vote

The Senate has confirmed Todd Blanche as attorney general in a narrow 50-49 vote, formalizing his leadership of the Justice Department. The early Saturday morning vote makes Blanche the second person to hold the office since President Donald Trump returned to the White House, and it comes as the administration has sought to use the department to pursue its political agenda.

Blanche, who previously served as Trump's personal criminal defense attorney, had been running the department in an acting capacity. His confirmation now removes any temporary status and could allow him to pursue the administration's objectives more aggressively.

The confirmation capped a turbulent process that raised concerns from both Democrats and some Republicans about installing a close presidential ally atop an agency that has historically valued its independence. Two Republicans, Senators Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, voted against Blanche.

A key sticking point was a controversial settlement of Trump's lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service. Under pressure, Blanche provided written assurances that the department would abandon a proposed $1.8 billion compensation fund for individuals, including those involved in the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack, and would also rein in provisions that shielded Trump and his family from tax audits.

Those commitments helped secure the decisive support of Republican Senator Bill Cassidy, who said Blanche's background as Trump's former lawyer might make him more effective at pushing back on presidential demands. Senator Dick Durbin, the top Democrat on the Judiciary Committee, called the confirmation a "serious mistake" and urged colleagues to avoid being on the "wrong side" of history.

Blanche, a former federal prosecutor in New York, gained prominence defending Trump in the hush money trial and in two federal cases brought by the previous administration. He joined the Justice Department as deputy attorney general before being elevated after Trump fired Pam Bondi in April.

During his tenure, the department has pursued investigations into Trump's perceived opponents, including a case against former FBI Director James Comey. Blanche has also appointed a special prosecutor to examine whether former officials conspired to undermine Trump. The department has seen thousands of employees depart through firings, resignations, or voluntary exits.

Supporters argue Blanche's courtroom experience and the trust he has earned from Trump make him well-suited to explain legal constraints to the White House. They also point to his focus on violent crime, illegal immigration, and cartel activity. Senator Chuck Grassley, the Judiciary Committee chairman, endorsed Blanche, saying he has led the department with distinction.

It remains unclear whether Blanche will succeed in delivering on Trump's desire for retribution, a task that proved difficult for Bondi amid resistance from judges and the department's own workforce.