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

The U.S. Senate confirmed Todd Blanche as the 88th Attorney General in a narrow 50-49 vote early Saturday, August 8, 2026. A former personal lawyer for President Donald Trump, Blanche had served as acting attorney general since April after the firing of Pam Bondi. His confirmation was secured by a decisive vote from Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, who argued that a permanent appointee would have more leverage to manage the president than an acting official.

To gain necessary support from Republicans including Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis, Blanche provided written assurances to rescind a proposed $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization fund" intended to compensate allies of the president, including January 6 protesters. He also agreed to narrow a tax audit immunity deal for the Trump family, clarifying that protections would apply only retroactively to specified past matters.

Opposition came from all Democrats and Republican Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski. Critics cited the politicization of the Department of Justice, the handling of Jeffrey Epstein's files, and the erosion of departmental independence. Following the vote, President Donald Trump attacked Senator Murkowski on social media, calling her a "traitor."

During his time as acting attorney general, Blanche has already overseen the indictment of former FBI Director James Comey and accelerated investigations into political opponents. He has also committed to protecting pro-life state laws by preventing the mailing of chemical abortion drugs into states where they are illegal.