politics
Cassidy supports Todd Blanche, rescuing Trump's embattled attorney general pick
Attorney General nominee Todd Blanche needs at least 50 votes on the Senate floor to be confirmed after clearing the Senate Judiciary Committee.
TL;DR
- Senator Bill Cassidy, R-La., will vote to confirm Todd Blanche as attorney general.
- Cassidy's support gives Trump's nominee a crucial vote after Sens. Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski announced their opposition.
- Blanche, Trump's former attorney, faced resistance over Justice Department leadership and independence.
- Sens. John Cornyn and Thom Tillis supported Blanche after receiving assurances on a controversial fund and tax audits.
- Epstein survivors urged Cassidy to oppose Blanche, citing concerns about the Justice Department's handling of their identities and files.
- Cassidy acknowledged "not entirely satisfied" with current matters but argued a confirmed attorney general can better push back on the president.
- Cassidy also cited positive reviews of Blanche's management from prosecutors.