Murkowski Deal Blow to Trump AG Nomination
Murkowski's 'no' vote puts Blanche's nomination on the brink as Senate Republicans hold slim majority.
The update
Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski announced Friday she will oppose Todd Blanche’s nomination as attorney general, creating significant uncertainty for President Trump’s pick to lead the Justice Department. Murkowski’s decision follows concerns about the administration’s proposed fund to compensate Jan. 6 rioters, despite Blanche issuing an order terminating it. With Republicans holding a 53-47 Senate majority but Sen. Mitch McConnell not attending sessions, Blanche can only afford to lose two Republican votes if all Democrats oppose him. Sen. Susan Collins of Maine has also announced opposition.
Why it matters
Murkowski’s vote puts the nomination on a knife’s edge, potentially sinking or delaying it. The confirmation process has already been contentious, with Blanche winning the Senate Judiciary Committee vote 12-10 only after promising Republican holdouts he would not pursue the payout fund. The outcome could significantly impact the balance of power in the Senate and Trump’s agenda for the Justice Department.
What to watch
Will Sen. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana support the nomination? Could Democrats push legislation to permanently bar the compensation fund? What happens if Blanche fails to win confirmation but remains as acting attorney general indefinitely?
Sources
- cbsnews.com — Details on Murkowski's opposition and confirmation path
- thehill.com — Analysis of nomination's precarious status