Trump's Former Personal Lawyer Sworn In as Attorney General Amid Partisan Split

Todd Blanche, Donald Trump's former personal defense attorney, was sworn in as U.S. attorney general at a White House ceremony on August 10, 2026. The Senate confirmed him 50-49 in an overnight vote, with every Democrat and two Republicans — Collins and Murkowski — opposing. Democrats cited concerns over DOJ independence given Blanche's personal ties to Trump. He had served as acting AG since April.