WASHINGTON — Republican Senator Bill Cassidy said on Friday he would support President Donald Trump’s nomination of Todd Blanche to serve as U.S. attorney general, a move that appeared likely to secure Senate confirmation for the former Trump defense lawyer.
Cassidy, a Louisiana Republican who had been viewed as a key undecided vote, announced his decision in a Senate floor speech after days of uncertainty surrounding Blanche’s prospects. The nomination had faced opposition from Republican Senators Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Susan Collins of Maine, who cited concerns about the independence of the Justice Department under Blanche’s leadership.
“All considered, I will vote for Mr. Blanche,” Cassidy said, according to remarks reported by U.S. media. Cassidy acknowledged concerns raised during the confirmation process but said Blanche was qualified to manage the department.
Blanche has served as acting attorney general since April, after President Trump dismissed former Attorney General Pam Bondi. Before that, he served as deputy attorney general and was previously a personal lawyer for Trump. Trump formally nominated Blanche for the post in June.
Democrats and some Republicans have questioned whether Blanche would maintain the Justice Department’s traditional independence from the White House, citing his close ties to Trump and several controversial decisions made while serving as acting attorney general. Blanche has defended his record and made assurances to senators during the confirmation process.
With Cassidy’s support, Blanche appeared to have enough Republican backing to win confirmation in the closely divided Senate, though final vote timing had not been officially announced as lawmakers prepared for the August recess.
