Murkowski Opposes Trump Attorney General Pick Blanche

Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, announced Friday she will oppose President Trump's nominee for attorney general, Todd Blanche, narrowing his path to confirmation. "The country needs an Attorney General who will check the worst impulses of this administration, Murkowski said in a statement on X. "I hope Mr. Blanche is able to achieve that, if confirmed, but I simply do not have confidence that will be the case.

Murkowski cited concerns about "sweeping immunity protections granted to the president" and the "politicization—even weaponization" of the Department of Justice. She also criticized the anti-weaponization fund, which the administration initially said would aid those alleging federal wrongdoing. Blanche told Congress in June the fund was scrapped and formally rescinded it this week.

"I am also keenly aware that the Department's nearly $2-billion dollar slush fund—which likely would have rewarded January 6 protesters—is only off the table because this nomination is pending and the Senate has leverage, Murkowski said. "Once we vote, that will end, and there is no telling what the future holds. Murkowski joins Sen.

Susan Collins, R-Maine, in opposing Blanche. GOP Sens.