NewsWSVN 7 News MiamiAugust 7, 2026Miami-Dade
Senator Bill Cassidy backs Todd Blanche for Attorney General, likely securing confirmation
Republican Senator Bill Cassidy announced his support for Todd Blanche’s nomination as Attorney General, a move expected to provide the necessary votes for confirmation despite opposition from other GOP senators. The nomination has faced scrutiny over a proposed $1.8 billion compensation fund and tax audit immunity for the President, both of which have been subject to recent negotiations and formal rescissions.
Read the full story at WSVN 7 News MiamiWhy It Matters
The of the Attorney General determines the leadership of the U.S. Department of Justice, which oversees federal law enforcement, investigations, and the administration of the $1.8 billion fund and tax audit policies currently under debate.
Key Facts
- Senator Bill Cassidy announced his support for Todd Blanche, likely securing the votes needed for confirmation.
- Todd Blanche has served as acting Attorney General since April following the firing of Pam Bondi.
- The 'Anti-Weaponization Fund,' a proposed $1.8 billion compensation fund, was formally rescinded by Blanche as part of a deal to secure committee advancement.
- A tax audit immunity agreement was clarified to apply only to claims open at the time of the settlement and only to Donald Trump, his two sons, and the Trump Organization.
- Senators Lisa Murkowski and Susan Collins have publicly announced their opposition to the nomination.
- The Department of Justice has experienced significant staff turnover, including thousands of firings and resignations, under the current administration.
- The IRS workers' union has filed a request with a federal judge to block the tax immunity agreement.
- Democrats have expressed concerns regarding the independence of the Justice Department and the focus of investigations on political opponents.
Who's Mentioned
personPam Bondi“Former acting Attorney General fired in April.”personSusan Collins“Republican Senator from Maine opposing the nomination.”personJohn Cornyn“Republican Senator from Texas involved in confirmation negotiations.”personBill Cassidy“Republican Senator from Louisiana who announced support for Blanche.”personRichard Durbin“Democratic Senator from Illinois and top Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Commit”personThom Tillis“Republican Senator from North Carolina involved in confirmation negotiations.”personTodd Blanche“Nominee for Attorney General and former criminal defense lawyer for Donald Trump”personLisa Murkowski“Republican Senator from Alaska opposing the nomination.”personDonald Trump“President of the United States.”