Todd Blanche Confirmed as U.S. Attorney General in Narrow Senate Vote
The Senate confirmed Todd Blanche, President Trump's former criminal defense lawyer, as attorney general on August 8 in a 50-49 party-line vote. Blanche now heads the Department of Justice and all 93 U.S. Attorneys.
What Happened
The Senate confirmed Todd Blanche as U.S. attorney general early Saturday in a mostly party-line vote, capping off weeks of uncertainty and despite bipartisan concerns about his ability to run a Justice Department independent of President Donald Trump's impulses. Blanche, who was formerly Trump's personal attorney, was confirmed by a vote of 50-49, with only two Republican senators, Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, voting against him along with all Democrats.
The Senate voted to confirm Todd Blanche as U.S. attorney general, elevating the Justice Department's No. 2 leader and President Trump's former personal lawyer to head the entire 100,000-plus person department.
Why This Matters for You
As the nation's chief law enforcement officer, the attorney general sets enforcement priorities across the federal government—including immigration enforcement, civil rights protections, and federal prosecution. If you hold a visa, green card, or are in the process of adjusting status, the DOJ and its sub-agencies (including USCIS under DOJ oversight in certain matters) will be led by Blanche. Changes to enforcement priorities, interpretation of immigration law, and investigation conduct can directly affect visa holders, work authorization processing, and deportation proceedings. Monitor official DOJ announcements at justice.gov for policy changes relevant to your status.
Sources
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