US Senate confirms Trump's ex-lawyer Todd Blanche as attorney general

Todd Blanche, who previously served as Donald Trump's personal lawyer, has been confirmed as the US attorney general following a closely contested Senate vote. Republicans narrowly secured his confirmation with a 50-49 tally, though two Republican senators, Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski, joined Democrats in opposing the nomination, highlighting the political sensitivity surrounding the appointment.

Democrats voiced strong objections throughout the confirmation process, accusing Trump of weaponizing the Justice Department. Senator Dick Durbin argued that the attorney general should represent the public, not a single client, and expressed concern that Blanche would continue to act as Trump's personal lawyer. Blanche, who has been acting attorney general since April, has been closely associated with what Democrats describe as Trump's "retribution" campaign against his opponents.

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I am deeply honored by the trust and confidence President Trump has placed in me to lead the Department of Justice. I am grateful to the Senate for staying late to complete this process. To the dedicated public servants of the Department of Justice, thank you for your work each day to uphold the law and keep our country safe

To assuage Republican dissent, Blanche issued a written order over the weekend that rescinded the proposed "political anti-weaponisation fund." This fund was intended for individuals, potentially including January 6th Capitol rioters, who Trump claims were victims of politicized prosecutions. Additionally, an agreement granting Trump, his sons, and the Trump Organization immunity from tax audits was modified to apply only retroactively to past tax years, not future ones.

Blanche's confirmation comes amid broader concerns about Trump's influence over government agencies. Trump has been criticized for seeking to bring nominally independent bodies under his direct control. The nomination also faced scrutiny over Blanche's handling of investigative files related to Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender.

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The attorney general is supposed to be the people's lawyer. Mr Blanche continues to operate as the president's personal lawyer, treating the Justice Department like a law firm serving one client - the president.