WASHINGTON — Senator Lisa Murkowski, Republican of Alaska, has not committed to supporting Todd Blanche's nomination as attorney general, leaving the White House short of a guaranteed majority as the full Senate prepares to vote.
The Senate Judiciary Committee advanced Blanche's nomination earlier this week on a 12-10 party-line vote. All Democrats opposed him; all Republicans on the committee supported him.
But Murkowski is not the only Republican holdout. Senator Susan Collins of Maine has said she will vote against Blanche. Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana remains uncommitted. With Republicans holding 53 seats, the administration can afford to lose only two votes if every Democrat opposes — meaning Cassidy's position may prove as decisive as Murkowski's.
Murkowski acknowledged that her office has received heavy constituent feedback against confirming Blanche. Her spokesman, Joe Plesha, said she would evaluate Blanche on his qualifications, experience, temperament and independence. Blanche met with Murkowski and other senators ahead of the floor vote.
Alaska has received substantial Justice Department funding in recent years, a fact that adds to the weight of Murkowski's decision.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune must find a path to 51 votes with his conference fraying at the edges. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer is expected to hold Democrats in lockstep opposition, making every Republican defection count.
The full Senate is expected to vote on Blanche's nomination later this week.
