The Senate Judiciary Committee voted Tuesday to advance the nomination of Todd Blanche for Attorney General to the full Senate [1].
The vote marks a critical step in filling the leadership of the U.S. Department of Justice, as the nominee moves toward a final confirmation vote. The decision follows intense scrutiny of Blanche's past actions and policy positions.
The committee approved the nomination on a 12-10 vote [1]. The tally largely followed party lines, though the result depended on the shift of two Republican holdouts [3]. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) both changed their stances to support the nominee [3].
"We remain concerned about the nominee's past, but we believe the American people deserve a functioning Justice Department," Cornyn said [3].
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Blanche has the experience needed to lead the Department of Justice [2]. The nomination had faced delays due to concerns regarding the nominee's legal history and ideological alignment with the administration.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) said the committee has fulfilled its duty and moved the nomination forward [1]. The vote occurred on the morning of Aug. 4, 2026 [4].
Blanche currently serves as the acting Attorney General while the confirmation process continues. The nomination now moves to the full Senate, where a majority vote is required for final confirmation [2].
“"The committee has fulfilled its duty and moved the nomination forward,"”
The advancement of Todd Blanche's nomination signals a consolidation of Republican support within the Senate, overcoming previous internal hesitation from key GOP members. By moving the nomination to the full Senate, the process shifts from a detailed committee review to a broader political confirmation battle, ensuring the administration will soon have a permanent lead at the Department of Justice.
