Murkowski to oppose Todd Blanche nomination, narrowing his path to confirmation
Murkowski to Oppose Todd Blanche: What It Means for Confirmation
Qwenews.com – Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska announced Friday she will vote against Todd Blanche's nomination as attorney general, Murkowski to oppose Todd Blanche being the latest development narrowing his path to Senate confirmation. With Sen. Mitch McConnell absent and Democrats expected to vote no, Blanche cannot afford additional Republican defections. The nomination now hinges on Sen. Bill Cassidy's decision.
Key Factors Behind Murkowski's Decision
Murkowski cited the so-called anti-weaponization fund as a primary factor in her choice. The $1.8 billion fund — rescinded only while Blanche's nomination remained in limbo — could be reinstated if he is confirmed. "The country needs an Attorney General who will check the worst impulses of this administration," Murkowski stated in her X post. "I hope Mr. Blanche is able to achieve that, if confirmed, but I simply do not have confidence that will be the case."
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt called Murkowski's decision "disappointing," defending Blanche as "exceptionally qualified." The statement emphasized that the administration and Justice Department have done significant work for Alaska. "While we are not surprised by Senator Murkowski's decision, it is nevertheless disappointing, considering all the Administration and specifically the Department of Justice has done for Alaska," Leavitt told CNN.
"The politicization—even weaponization—of the Department did not start with this administration but has accelerated during it," Murkowski wrote on X, listing grievances including the Epstein files handling and sweeping immunity protections.
What Happens Next for Blanche's Nomination
Republican Sens. John Cornyn and Thom Tillis only supported Blanche's nomination this week after he issued a written document purporting to rescind the controversial fund and limit tax immunity from the settlement with Trump's own administration. The anti-weaponization fund has been central to Blanche's confirmation struggles, alongside the unprecedented settlement over an IRS contractor's leak of Trump's tax information.
Blanche has traveled extensively to Capitol Hill over recent weeks, meeting with senators and building relationships. His two-day trip to Alaska earlier this month included meetings with local and tribal leaders. The Justice Department agreed to an $180 million settlement with Anchorage over port work, dropped two Biden-era lawsuits about Alaska's oil and gas production, and awarded $6.1 million in grants to local law enforcement and tribal governments.
Along with Murkowski, Blanche has concentrated on Sen. Cassidy, who has raised concerns about the "weaponization of the Justice Department," including a probe into Cassidy Hutchinson. It remains unclear whether the Justice Department will move for an indictment of the former White House aide.
Blanche met with both Cassidy and Murkowski earlier this week to address their concerns. Cassidy has yet to announce his vote. If Cassidy joins the opposition, Blanche may not receive a confirmation vote before senators depart for August recess on Friday.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Murkowski opposing Todd Blanche? Murkowski cited the anti-weaponization fund and concerns about the Justice Department's "weaponization" under the Trump administration as primary reasons for her opposition.
What happens if Blanche loses Murkowski's vote? With McConnell absent and all Democrats expected to vote against, losing Murkowski means Blanche needs Sen. Cassidy's support to secure confirmation before the August recess.
What is the anti-weaponization fund? The $1.8 billion fund would offer taxpayer money to people claiming they were victims of malicious prosecution by the federal government, including those involved with the January 6, 2021, US Capitol riot.
When is the confirmation vote expected? Senators are scheduled to leave for August recess on Friday. If Blanche cannot secure enough support, the vote may be delayed until they return.
How has Blanche worked to win over senators? Blanche has traveled extensively to Capitol Hill, met with senators individually, and signed a document purporting to rescind the controversial fund and limit tax immunity.