GOP Sens. Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski voted with Democrats against the nomination, formalizing Blanche’s permanent role as the top law enforcement officer after he spent months operating as the acting head of the Justice Department.
Senate Confirmation Vote and Bipartisan Opposition
His path to confirmation hit roadblocks with key Republican senators, including Lisa Murkowski of Alaska. Despite a two-day trip to Alaska by Blanche that included reaching two settlements, two lawsuits, and awarding over $6 million in grants, Murkowski voted against the nomination. According to Murkowski, the country needs an attorney general who will check the worst impulses of the administration.
Blanche’s initial vote in the Senate Judiciary Committee faced delays amid tense negotiations with GOP Sens. John Cornyn and Thom Tillis over a controversial anti-weaponization fund and a tax-immunity agreement.
Reshaping the Justice Department
His early directives included putting forth legal arguments that expand presidential powers, overseeing mass firings of experienced prosecutors, and launching a legal strategy that has drawn scrutiny from judges nationwide.
Blanche effectively ran day-to-day operations long before his confirmation. CNN previously reported that even while serving as deputy attorney general, Blanche frequently led meetings that former Attorney General Pam Bondi was supposed to oversee. When Bondi faced a media lockdown and criticism following her television appearances regarding the Epstein files, Blanche stepped in to manage the crisis personally, according to statements from Bondi.
From Defense Attorney to Attorney General
Blanche, 52, worked for years as a federal prosecutor before entering private practice a decade ago. Although registered as a Democrat who kept a low political profile, Blanche quickly became Trump’s primary lawyer for navigating three federal indictments.
During Trump’s hush-money trial in New York, Blanche sat beside the defendant, weaving Trump’s grievances into legal briefs and courtroom arguments. While Trump was convicted, Blanche’s defense tactics successfully delayed sentencing until after the election, preventing prison time. In federal court, Blanche’s team secured a Supreme Court victory expanding presidential immunity from criminal prosecution and convinced a Trump-appointed judge in Florida to dismiss classified documents charges.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the current Attorney General of the United States?
Todd Blanche was confirmed as the nation’s attorney general on Saturday by a 50-49 Senate vote.
What was the vote count for Todd Blanche’s confirmation?
The Senate confirmed Blanche by a vote of 50 to 49, with Republican Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski voting alongside Democrats in opposition.
What legal cases did Todd Blanche handle for Donald Trump?
Blanche served as Trump’s lead defense attorney during his New York hush-money criminal trial, federal election interference case, and the classified documents case in Florida.
What prior roles did Todd Blanche hold in the administration?
Before his confirmation as attorney general, Blanche served as the deputy attorney general and acting attorney general, overseeing day-to-day operations at the Justice Department.
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