Senator Susan Collins announced she will vote no on the nomination of Todd Blanche as Attorney General. Collins said that while Blanche is a capable lawyer, the Department of Justice has become increasingly politicized and that Blanche's actions have eroded its independence.
The Senate Judiciary Committee approved Blanche's nomination with a 12-10 vote after Republican Senators backed down over the weaponization fund. Blanche had previously rescinded the $1.8 billion weaponization fund and stated that he had met with committee members to address concerns.
Collins cited several actions that influenced her decision. These included the approval of a Trump audit immunity deal, the anti-weaponization fund, a promise to an anti-abortion group to prohibit the mailing of abortion medication nationwide, attempts to indict Senators Mark Kelly and Elissa Slotkin, and opposition from 1,200 former DOJ employees.
The final confirmation vote remains pending. Senator McConnell is absent, Senator Murkowski has declined to comment, and Senator Bill Cassidy has not yet committed. The vote could take place this week, leaving Blanche's confirmation in a state of uncertainty.
