The Senate confirmed Todd Blanche as the United States Attorney General in a 50‑49 vote, the narrowest margin in recent history, ending a months‑long standoff over his permanent appointment. The vote clears the way for a confirmed head of the Justice Department as the chamber heads into summer recess, setting the stage for the DOJ’s next agenda.
Two Republican senators, Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, joined all Democrats in opposing Blanche, while Louisiana Republican Bill Cassidy cast the decisive vote after a late‑night floor speech. Blanche, a former federal prosecutor and former personal defense lawyer for Donald Trump, has served as acting attorney general since April and faced scrutiny over his role in the release of Epstein‑related files and a proposed $1.8 billion “anti‑weaponisation” fund.
With a Senate‑confirmed attorney general, the Justice Department gains formal leadership stability, but lawmakers and watchdogs warn that Blanche’s close ties to the president could shape DOJ priorities toward politically sensitive cases. Critics argue the department may continue to be used as a tool for the administration’s agenda, while supporters cite his focus on violent crime, human trafficking, and Medicare fraud as evidence of a hands‑on administrator.
Reports differ on the status of the $1.8 billion fund: one source says the DOJ rescinded the fund after Senate negotiations, while another notes that the agreement is “decorative” and not legally binding, leaving the fund’s future uncertain. Similarly, some descriptions frame the fund as compensation for alleged government persecution, whereas others suggest it could have been used to pay Jan 6 rioters, highlighting ongoing disagreement over its intended purpose.