Susan Collins Vows to Block Todd Blanche’s Confirmation as Attorney General

The Senate Judiciary Committee moved Todd Blanche’s nomination for U.S. attorney general out of committee after a deal with two Republican senators to block the so-called “Anti-Weaponization Fund,” a proposal favored by former President Donald Trump for his allies, including participants in the January 6, 2021 insurrection. The advance brings the nomination to the full Senate, where the vote could be jeopardized if three Republican senators oppose it, given the near-full attendance of the 53-member GOP caucus.

Common Dreams

Maine Republican Senator Susan Collins, who is seeking re-election against Democratic former state Senate president Troy Jackson, announced that she will vote against Blanche. In a lengthy social-media statement, Collins said she had reviewed Blanche’s qualifications and, while acknowledging his legal ability, argued that the Department of Justice has become increasingly political. She cited Blanche’s approval of an immunity deal for the Trump family, his support for the Anti-Weaponization Fund, his pledge to prohibit mailing abortion medication nationwide, and his attempts to indict Democratic senators over statements encouraging resistance to unlawful military orders. Collins framed these actions as eroding the department’s independence.

Common Dreams

Collins’ stance comes as she faces a formidable Democratic challenger who has shifted his position on abortion, emphasizing a record of 100 % ratings from Planned Parenthood between 2018 and 2024. The contest has drawn national attention, with commentators noting Collins’ historical role as a “concerned moderate” who previously supported the confirmation of Justice Brett Kavanaugh, whose tenure later contributed to the overturning of Roe v. Wade.

Common Dreams

Blanche, in a recent White House Faith Office call recorded and posted by the religious group Intercessors for America, asserted that the Justice Department is working “hand in hand” with the White House, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Food and Drug Administration to make the Dobbs decision permanent in every state. When pressed for clarification, the Justice Department limited the comment to “mail-order abortion drugs.” Critics, including former Biden adviser Brendan Duke, suggested that Republican votes may be sufficient to confirm Blanche despite opposition.

Common Dreams

The full Senate is expected to vote on Blanche’s confirmation in the coming weeks. Collins’ opposition, along with that of other moderate Republicans, could prove decisive if the anticipated three-vote deficit materializes, potentially leaving the Justice Department under a nominee whose stated goals include further restricting abortion medication and aligning closely with the White House agenda.

Common Dreams