Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana says he will vote to confirm Todd Blanche as the next attorney general. Multiple outlets report Cassidy’s announcement on the Senate floor, where he lays out the reasoning behind his decision and, according to NBC News, raises concerns about the Trump administration’s relationship with the Justice Department. Other reports describe the move as effectively clearing the path for confirmation.
The nomination has been proceeding through the Senate process. CNBC notes that following action by the Senate Judiciary Committee, Blanche would need at least 50 votes on the Senate floor to be confirmed. With Cassidy’s support, outlets say Blanche is likely to secure the necessary votes.
CBS News also characterizes Cassidy’s remarks as emotional while he announces his intention to back Blanche. PBS NewsHour likewise reports that Cassidy’s vote would likely pave the way for Blanche to lead the Justice Department under President Donald Trump. The accounts are consistent that Cassidy is the remaining Republican holdout whose decision is expected to determine whether the confirmation moves forward.
