Cassidy backs Blanche for attorney general, clearing way for confirmation

Republican senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana has announced his support for the nomination of Todd Blanche for attorney general, paving the way for his confirmation to lead the Justice Department. Cassidy emphasized that while Blanche is not perfect, the choice is between Blanche and another acting attorney general who may not effectively manage the department under the Trump administration.

With Cassidy's backing, Blanche is expected to secure his confirmation, though by a narrow margin, as two Republican senators plan to oppose his nomination. All Democrats are anticipated to vote against Blanche for attorney general. The Senate plans to vote on several GOP priorities before its five-week recess. Cassidy argued that approving Blanche would risk progress in combating violent crime, human and drug trafficking, and fraud.

Blanche, who was previously the president's personal defense lawyer, has been serving as acting attorney general since the firing of Pam Bondi. However, his confirmation has been uncertain due to concerns over his role in the establishment of a $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization" fund and granting President Trump immunity from tax audits and investigations.

Cassidy criticized Blanche's decisions, but acknowledged that some criticisms were beyond his control, such as the president's pardons for defendants involved in the Jan. 6 Capitol attack.