Murkowski opposition narrows Blanche path to AG confirmation

Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska announced Friday she will vote against Todd Blanche's confirmation as attorney general, becoming the second GOP senator to oppose President Donald Trump's nominee and leaving the confirmation in significant doubt.

Murkowski cited concerns over the politicization of the Justice Department under the Trump administration, including its handling of files related to Jeffrey Epstein and questions surrounding a proposed $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund. In a statement posted on social media, she said she had held constructive meetings with Blanche and found him decent and capable, but added that she lacked confidence he would check the administration's worst impulses if confirmed.

Her decision follows a similar announcement earlier this week from Senator Susan Collins of Maine. With Republican Senator Mitch McConnell absent from the Senate indefinitely due to illness, Republicans hold a 53-47 majority but Blanche can afford to lose no more than two GOP votes if Democrats vote as a bloc against him. A third defection would block confirmation.

Blanche, Trump's former personal attorney who has served as acting attorney general, advanced through the Senate Judiciary Committee this week on a 12-10 vote after reaching agreements with Senators John Cornyn of Texas and Thom Tillis of North Carolina. Those senators had raised objections over a settlement tied to Trump's $10 billion lawsuit against the IRS, which included the anti-weaponization fund and tax-immunity provisions. Blanche pledged in writing to terminate the fund, though Murkowski and others have questioned whether it could be revived later and whether the deal provided undue personal benefit to the president.

Murkowski specifically highlighted the Epstein files release and the fund as examples of ongoing issues at the department. She noted that Senate leverage over these matters stems in part from the pending nomination, which would disappear upon confirmation. Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana remains undecided, and Majority Leader John Thune has indicated plans to hold a floor vote before the August recess, though the outcome now appears less certain.

The developments underscore tensions within the Republican caucus over the direction of the Justice Department. Critics have pointed to multiple actions by the administration as evidence of efforts to align federal law enforcement with political priorities, a charge the White House has rejected. Blanche's confirmation would make permanent an official who has already overseen several contentious decisions during his interim tenure.

Democrats are expected to oppose the nomination uniformly, with even occasional Trump supporters like Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania signaling opposition. Senate leaders have not yet scheduled the final vote, and the absence of additional Republican support could force a delay or require further negotiations.

The confirmation fight reflects broader questions about institutional independence at the Justice Department, an agency long criticized by both parties for perceived partisan influence. Murkowski's stance adds to pressure on Blanche to demonstrate independence from the president who appointed him.