Trump Ally Confirmed As US Attorney General

Todd Blanche, a close ally of President Trump and his former personal lawyer, has been confirmed as the US attorney general in a narrow 50-49 Senate vote. The deciding vote was cast by Senator Bill Cassidy, who announced his support for Blanche despite initial reservations.

Blanche's nomination was opposed by Republican Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski, who voted against him. The Senate Judiciary Committee had advanced his nomination after he rescinded the order setting up President Trump's $1.776 billion 'anti-weaponization' fund.

Sens. John Cornyn and Thom Tillis had initially opposed Blanche's nomination but dropped their opposition after reaching a written agreement with him to terminate the anti-weaponization fund. Senator Mitch McConnell was not present for the vote due to a health-related absence.

The vote was largely along party lines, with every Democratic member present voting against Blanche's nomination. Blanche will replace Pam Bondi as attorney general.

## What's Next The confirmation of Todd Blanche as US attorney general is seen as a significant development in the Trump administration. Blanche's previous role as Trump's personal lawyer has been met with criticism, and his nomination was widely opposed by Democratic members.

The confirmation process was marked by intense drama, with Senator Bill Cassidy's deciding vote being announced in a speech that was widely criticized for being overly dramatic. Despite the controversy surrounding his nomination, Blanche has been confirmed as the new attorney general, and his tenure is expected to be closely watched.