GOP Sen. Lisa Murkowski comes out against Todd Blanche for attorney general, putting his nomination in jeopardy
Senator Bill Cassidy's support for Todd Blanche's attorney general nomination likely secures his confirmation, despite opposition from GOP senators Lisa Murkowski and Susan Collins. Murkowski expressed concerns regarding the potential politicization of the Justice Department under the current administration.
Why it matters
The confirmation of an attorney general is a critical check on executive power, and this vote highlights internal Republican divisions regarding the future of the Justice Department.
WASHINGTON — Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., announced Friday he will vote for President Donald Trump’s pick of Todd Blanche for attorney general, likely assuring his confirmation. “All considered, I will vote for Mr. Blanche. I’ll be criticized for this vote. What’s new?” Cassidy said in a floor speech after outlining concerns he said he weighed. Cassidy’s decision is likely to be decisive in helping Blanche get confirmed to the powerful job. While he’s “concerned about episodes of apparent lawfare,” Cassidy said, “even critics admit that Mr. Blanche knows the law and is a hands-on administrator.” The White House welcomed Cassidy’s decision. “This is great news and we look forward to his final confirmation shortly,” White House spokeswoman Lauren Bis said in a statement.
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