Sen. Cassidy to Vote for Blanche's Attorney General Nomination
Sen. Bill Cassidy announced he will vote for Todd Blanche's attorney general nomination, boosting Blanche's prospects for confirmation. Cassidy's vote helps keep Blanche's nomination alive despite opposition from some Republican senators.
Sen. Bill Cassidy announced Friday that he will vote for Todd Blanche's attorney general nomination. This decision boosts Blanche's prospects for confirmation before the Senate leaves for its August recess. Cassidy's vote is significant because Blanche could afford to lose only two GOP votes if Democrats vote along party lines, given the continued absence of Sen. Mitch McConnell.
Cassidy stated that his decision is not a referendum on President Trump, but rather a decision regarding Blanche in specific circumstances. He acknowledged that he will be criticized for his vote but believes he made the right decision after working hard to understand the issue. Cassidy pointed out missteps under Blanche's DOJ leadership but noted that Blanche knows the law well and will run the department effectively.
Blanche's nomination appeared to regain momentum earlier this week after Sens. John Cornyn and Thom Tillis dropped their opposition following a written agreement with Blanche to terminate Trump's proposed anti-weaponization fund. However, Sen. Lisa Murkowski's announcement that she wouldn't support Blanche raised fresh doubts before Cassidy announced his support. Senate Majority Leader John Thune has repeatedly said he wants to vote on Blanche before the chamber's August recess, but a vote has not yet been scheduled.
Go Deeper
What is the current status of Todd Blanche's attorney general nomination?
Todd Blanche's nomination is still pending, but it has gained momentum with Sen. Bill Cassidy's announcement that he will vote for Blanche. However, some Republican senators, including Lisa Murkowski and Susan Collins, have expressed opposition to the nomination.
Why is Sen. Cassidy's vote important for Blanche's nomination?
Sen. Cassidy's vote is crucial because Blanche can only afford to lose two GOP votes if Democrats vote along party lines, given the absence of Sen. Mitch McConnell. Cassidy's support helps keep Blanche's nomination alive despite opposition from some Republican senators.
What were some of the concerns raised by Sen. Cassidy about Blanche's leadership?
Sen. Cassidy pointed out missteps under Blanche's DOJ leadership, including the controversial anti-weaponization fund. However, he also noted that Blanche knows the law well and will run the department effectively.
What is the expected timeline for the Senate vote on Blanche's nomination?
Senate Majority Leader John Thune wants to vote on Blanche's nomination before the chamber's August recess, but a vote has not yet been scheduled.
How did other Republican senators respond to Blanche's nomination?
Some Republican senators, including John Cornyn and Thom Tillis, dropped their opposition to Blanche's nomination after a written agreement to terminate Trump's proposed anti-weaponization fund. However, others, such as Lisa Murkowski and Susan Collins, have expressed opposition to the nomination.
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