Senator Murkowski Joins Opposition to Blanche for Attorney General
Senator Lisa Murkowski opposes Todd Blanche's nomination for Attorney General.
Why it matters: Blanche’s confirmation is uncertain amid opposition from key senators, affecting Justice Department leadership and legal policy enforcement. Senate dynamics around his ties to Trump raise concerns about impartiality.
- Senator Lisa Murkowski announced opposition on August 7, 2026, joining Senator Susan Collins against Blanche's confirmation.
- Todd Blanche has served as Acting AG since April 2, 2026, after Pam Bondi’s dismissal in March.
- Senator Bill Cassidy remains undecided, citing concerns over Blanche’s past as Trump’s personal attorney.
- Senate Majority Leader John Thune has not scheduled a final vote, with Senate recess starting August 8, 2026.
- Blanche withdrew a $1.8 billion fund aimed at compensating Trump allies, sparking criticism.
On August 7, 2026, Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) announced she would oppose Todd Blanche's confirmation as Attorney General, joining Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) in opposition. Murkowski's announcement was reported by Politico. This opposition heightens doubts whether Blanche can secure Senate approval.
Todd Blanche has been Acting Attorney General since April 2, 2026, following former AG Pam Bondi's dismissal amid political controversy (New York Times). Blanche’s prior role as former President Donald Trump’s personal attorney fuels concerns over his impartiality. He recently rescinded a $1.8 billion fund created to compensate Trump allies targeted by investigations, described as an 'anti-weaponization fund' by critics (Washington Post).
Senator Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana) remains undecided, citing "significant concerns" about Blanche's ability to act independently due to his Trump connections (C-SPAN). This indecision adds uncertainty to the confirmation path.
The Senate Judiciary Committee advanced Blanche's nomination after clarifying a tax audit immunity agreement limited to past claims involving Trump and his associates, excluding future filings. Yet, questions about Blanche’s independence persist among some senators.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-South Dakota) has not yet scheduled a final confirmation vote as the August recess starts August 8, 2026 (Roll Call). Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell remains hospitalized, limiting his influence on the vote.
Blanche’s nomination remains in limbo, highlighting challenges in Justice Department leadership during this transitional period.
By the numbers:
- August 7, 2026 — Date Murkowski announced opposition
- April 2, 2026 — Blanche appointed Acting AG
- $1.8 billion — Fund rescinded by Blanche aimed at compensating Trump allies
Yes, but: Despite opposition from key Republicans, Blanche retains some support in the Senate and could still be confirmed if undecided senators vote in his favor.
What's next: The Senate is set to recess on August 8, 2026, delaying any final confirmation vote until September unless the schedule changes.