Senate Judiciary Committee Advances Todd Blanche's Attorney General Nomination
The Senate Judiciary Committee has voted to advance Todd Blanche's nomination as Attorney General following a closely watched party line vote.
The committee approved Blanche's nomination by a 12–10 vote, with all Republican members voting in favour and all Democrats opposing the nomination. The decision sends his nomination to the full Senate, where Republicans hold a narrow majority.
Blanche, who currently serves as Acting Attorney General and previously represented President Donald Trump as his personal defence attorney, secured support after agreeing to formally terminate the controversial $1.8 billion Anti Weaponization Fund that had raised concerns among several Republican senators.
Republican Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis, who had previously withheld support, backed Blanche after receiving written assurances that the compensation fund would be dismantled and would not benefit Trump allies. Their support proved crucial in allowing the nomination to advance.
Despite the committee's approval, Blanche's confirmation remains uncertain. Republican Senator Susan Collins has publicly announced she intends to vote against his nomination, citing concerns about maintaining the independence of the Department of Justice.
Democratic senators continued to oppose Blanche, arguing that rescinding the fund may not permanently prevent it from being revived in the future. They also questioned Blanche's close relationship with President Trump and warned that his appointment could further politicise the Justice Department.
Blanche defended his record during the confirmation process, telling senators he would enforce the law fairly and independently if confirmed. He rejected accusations that he would use the Justice Department to pursue political objectives.
The full Senate is expected to vote on Blanche's nomination later this week. If confirmed, he will become the permanent Attorney General and lead the Justice Department during President Trump's second term.
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