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Cassidy supports Todd Blanche, Trump's embattled attorney general pick
CNBC • • general
Key Points:
- Sen. Bill Cassidy announced he will vote to confirm Todd Blanche as attorney general, providing the crucial 50th vote needed for confirmation amid opposition from two other Senate Republicans.
- Blanche, Trump's former personal attorney and acting attorney general, faced criticism over his leadership and the Justice Department's handling of sensitive cases, including the Jeffrey Epstein files.
- Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis agreed to support Blanche after receiving assurances on the rescinding of a controversial fund and clarifications on tax audit protections for Trump and his family.
- Cassidy acknowledged concerns about Blanche but emphasized the importance of having a Senate-confirmed attorney general to effectively push back on President Trump, despite Blanche not being perfect.
- Epstein survivors urged Cassidy to oppose Blanche, accusing the Justice Department of mishandling survivor information and lacking accountability, but Cassidy decided to support Blanche without meeting the group.
