Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska says she will oppose President Donald Trump’s nomination of acting Attorney General Todd Blanche to serve as attorney general full-time. Multiple outlets report that Murkowski’s statement narrows the path for confirmation and puts Blanche’s nomination at serious risk, as losing additional votes could delay or prevent the Senate from advancing the pick.
Murkowski is described as a moderate GOP senator whose opposition adds to already uncertain odds for Blanche. Coverage notes that she cites concerns about what the administration might do as part of broader justice-related and political developments. In particular, The Guardian reports Murkowski is concerned that a proposed fund to compensate individuals involved in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot could proceed, even after Blanche indicated the effort was dead.
Overall, outlets agree that Murkowski’s decision constitutes a major new “no” vote threat, making Blanche’s confirmation less likely to succeed quickly. The nomination outcome depends on remaining senators’ views and the Senate’s ability to secure sufficient support.
