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Senate confirms Blanche as attorney general in overnight vote
AP News • • nation
Key Points:
- The Senate confirmed Todd Blanche as attorney general in a narrow 50-49 vote, making him the second confirmed AG under President Trump and solidifying Trump's influence over the Justice Department.
- Blanche, Trump's former personal attorney, faced a contentious confirmation due to concerns over his loyalty to Trump and a controversial $1.8 billion settlement fund that he agreed to abandon under pressure.
- Two Republican senators, Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski, joined all Democrats in opposing Blanche, citing fears that he would not act independently from the Trump administration.
- Blanche has aggressively pursued investigations into Trump's political enemies and appointed allies to key roles, raising concerns about the department's impartiality and independence.
- Supporters argue Blanche's prosecutorial experience and close relationship with Trump enable him to effectively manage the Justice Department, while critics warn his tenure could undermine the rule of law.
