Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, announced her opposition to President Donald Trump’s nominee for Attorney General, Todd Blanche, on Friday. This decision puts Blanche’s confirmation in jeopardy, as Murkowski joins fellow centrist Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, in opposing the president’s choice.
Concerns Over Politicization
Murkowski expressed concerns over the politicization of the Justice Department under the Trump administration. She cited the handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case and questioned the proposed $1.8 billion ‘anti-weaponization’ fund, which she referred to as a ‘slush fund.’ Murkowski stated that she had ‘numerous constructive meetings’ with Blanche but ultimately decided to oppose his nomination due to her lack of confidence in his ability to check the administration’s impulses.
With Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., out indefinitely, and Democrats expected to vote against Blanche, a third GOP opponent would block the nomination. Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., remains undecided on the matter.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
