Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, has declared she will not support Todd Blanche's nomination to be the nation's attorney general, dealing a significant setback to the confirmation process. Her decision comes after a concentrated lobbying effort by Blanche, including a visit to Alaska.
Murkowski cited broader concerns about the "politicization — even weaponization — of the Department" during the current administration, stating that these issues "did not start with this administration but has accelerated during it." Specifically, she raised objections to "the handling of the release of the Epstein files; the sweeping immunity protections granted to the President, his family, and their businesses; the statements that have been made to anti-abortion groups; and the repeated targeting of individuals ranging from former administration staff to sitting U.S. Senators."
A key point of contention for Murkowski is the Department of Justice's nearly $2 billion "slush fund," which she believes could potentially reward January 6th protesters. She noted that the fund is currently off the table due to the pending nomination and the Senate's leverage, but expressed concern that it could be revived once the confirmation process concludes.
Several lawmakers have acknowledged that while Blanche and the DOJ have agreed in writing to permanently rescind the fund, there is nothing to prevent former President Donald Trump from reinstating it. Trump has previously indicated a desire for the fund's return.
Prior to Murkowski's announcement, Trump publicly criticized her during an interview, stating, "I’m against Murkowski. I do more for Alaska than any president in history. No president’s done for Alaska what I’ve done. She’s not good."
Murkowski's opposition, alongside that of Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, leaves Blanche's confirmation in a precarious position. If Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., who has not yet declared his stance, also votes against the nomination, it could lead to a 50-50 tie, requiring Vice President JD Vance to break the vote. The Senate's schedule for a vote on Blanche remained uncertain as of Friday, with the chamber preparing for an August recess.
Murkowski concluded her statement by expressing hope that Blanche could act as a check on the administration's impulses if confirmed, but stated, "I simply do not have confidence that will be the case."