Murkowski opposes Blanche, putting Trump’s AG pick at risk
WASHINGTON: Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska has announced that she will vote against Todd Blanche’s nomination for US attorney general, dealing another setback to President Donald Trump’s choice and leaving his confirmation prospects increasingly uncertain.
Murkowski’s decision makes her the second Republican senator to oppose Blanche, following Senator Susan Collins. With the Republican majority in the Senate already facing a narrow margin, even one more GOP defection could put the nomination in serious jeopardy.
Murkowski said concerns surrounding an $1.8 billion “anti-weaponization” fund played a major role in her decision. Although the fund was rescinded while Blanche’s nomination was under consideration, she questioned whether it could be restored if Blanche is confirmed.
“The country needs an Attorney General who will check the worst impulses of this administration,” Murkowski said, adding that she did not have sufficient confidence that Blanche would fulfil that role.
Her opposition adds to a growing political challenge for Blanche, who is seeking Senate approval to lead the Justice Department. The nomination has faced scrutiny over questions surrounding the department’s independence and its handling of politically sensitive matters.
The situation is particularly delicate because Republican Senator Mitch McConnell is absent from the Senate. That leaves Blanche with little room for further defections, while attention has turned to Republican Senator Bill Cassidy, who has yet to make his position clear.
Murkowski, a longtime Alaska senator known for occasionally breaking with her party, said she had met with Blanche several times and viewed him as capable. However, she ultimately concluded that his nomination raised concerns she could not overlook.
Her decision could force Senate Republican leaders to intensify efforts to secure support for Blanche before the chamber’s August recess.
For Trump, a failed confirmation would represent a significant political setback in his effort to shape the Justice Department with his preferred leadership. The Senate battle is now expected to remain closely watched as Republicans work to determine whether Blanche can secure enough votes.
