Cassidy Backs Blanche for AG, Securing Votes for Confirmation

WASHINGTON — Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La. announced Friday that he will vote to confirm Todd Blanche as attorney general, providing President Trump's nominee the votes needed to clear a full Senate vote.

Blanche's nomination had faced opposition from at least two other Senate Republicans, making Cassidy a key holdout. His announcement shifts the vote count and secures the simple majority required for confirmation.

Blanche has served as acting attorney general. The Senate Judiciary Committee previously advanced his nomination to the full chamber, where 51 votes are required for confirmation.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune will likely schedule the confirmation vote in the coming days.

The attorney general directs the Justice Department, which includes the FBI, DEA and U.S. attorneys' offices across the country.

Blanche has served as acting attorney general. The Senate Judiciary Committee previously advanced his nomination to the full chamber, where 51 votes are required for confirmation.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune will likely schedule the confirmation vote in the coming days.

The attorney general directs the Justice Department, which includes the FBI, DEA and U.S. attorneys' offices across the country.