Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche faces a heightened hurdle in his confirmation process after a key Senate committee vote, prompting Republican leaders to consider a full floor vote.
Senator Susan Collins announced she will oppose Blanche, arguing that the Department of Justice has become increasingly politicized and that Blanche’s actions have further eroded its independence.
Collins’ decision follows a review of Blanche’s qualifications, including his records and testimony before the Senate Appropriations Committee and his confirmation hearing.
She highlighted several specific concerns, such as Blanche’s approval of an IRS audit shield for the former president and his family, and the creation of a nearly $2 billion anti‑weaponization fund that has unsettled many Republicans.
Collins also cited Blanche’s promises to anti‑abortion organizations to block mailed abortion medication and his attempts to indict two Democratic senators for videos encouraging resistance to unlawful orders, noting resistance from more than 1,200 Justice Department employees.
Her opposition represents a critical, though not decisive, blow to Blanche’s prospects; Republicans can afford only one additional dissenting vote before the nomination stalls.
Uncertainty deepens as the Senate Majority Leader remains absent with no clear timeline for return, leaving the leadership’s strategy in flux.
Several Republican senators, including those from Alaska, Utah, and Louisiana, have expressed reservations and have not pledged support for Blanche.
Earlier, Blanche secured a deal with two Republican senators to win committee backing, which included assurances that the anti‑weaponization fund was dead and that audit immunity for the former president would be limited.
Critics argue the agreement lacks enforceable mechanisms, raising doubts that it will hold after confirmation.
The development complicates Republican leadership’s plan to confirm Blanche swiftly before the Senate recess scheduled for the remainder of August.
No comment has been received from the White House regarding Collins’ opposition, and officials have not provided a public response.
