Sen. Bill Cassidy backs Todd Blanche for attorney general, calling decision nuanced

Sen. Bill Cassidy said his vote to confirm Todd Blanche as attorney general was not a straightforward partisan decision, describing it as a “gradation of gray.” The Louisiana Republican made the announcement on the Senate floor on Friday and later reiterated his view on “Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan.”

Cassidy noted that opposition to Blanche had centered on the Justice Department’s $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund, which was intended to compensate individuals who claimed they were harmed by the federal government. He said he had been told the fund’s reinstatement process was effectively dead and cited Sen. John Cornyn’s reassurance on the matter as a factor in his support.

“No American should be targeted by the law, but no American should be above the law,” Cassidy said, adding that the settlement granting broad immunity to President Trump’s family “almost weighed to vote no.”

He also highlighted positive feedback from U.S. attorneys in Louisiana, arguing that stable and effective leadership at the Justice Department was essential. While acknowledging “existential anxiety” about future elections, Cassidy expressed confidence in Blanche’s ability to uphold constitutional duties.

Cassidy’s vote was decisive because, with 53 Senate seats and the absence of GOP leader Mitch McConnell, a single dissenting Republican could have blocked the nomination. His support helped secure Blanche’s confirmation early Saturday.