Overnight vote ends a tense fight
The Senate confirmed Todd Blanche as attorney general in a narrow overnight vote. Blanche is President Trump's former criminal defense lawyer. He now becomes the nation's top law enforcement official. The vote ended weeks of uncertainty over the nomination. The final tally was tight, and the chamber worked through the night to reach it.
Blanche faced rare pushback from members of his own party. Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska said she opposed the pick. Other Republicans voiced private doubts about his experience. The White House worked the phones to hold the vote together. Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana said he would vote to confirm, saving the nomination from collapse.
Critics point to ties with Trump
Democrats attacked the nomination from the start. They said Blanche's work as Trump's defense lawyer creates a conflict of interest. They argued he could not be impartial in investigations touching the president or his allies. Blanche promised to run the Justice Department independently during his confirmation hearing. He said he would follow the law and protect the integrity of the department.
Supporters said Blanche is a skilled lawyer who will restore order at the Justice Department. They pointed to his record in federal courtrooms and his command of criminal law.
Big cases ahead
Blanche takes office at a busy moment. The department is handling cases tied to the Iran war, election security, and border enforcement. He will also oversee the FBI and federal prosecutors across the country. The midterm elections are months away, and the Justice Department will face questions about voting rights and election integrity.
Blanche is the second Trump ally to lead the department this term. His confirmation is a win for the White House, but the narrow margin shows the limits of Republican unity. The vote also sets up a long fight with Democrats over the department's direction. Blanche inherits a department that has been at the center of political fights all year. His first weeks will be watched closely by both parties.