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Murkowski, Collins Block Todd Blanche Nomination, Threatening 50-50 Tie

8/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) said she will not support Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche’s nomination.
Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) voted against Blanche, citing DOJ politicization and $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund, which was cut after pressure from Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) and John Cornyn (R-Texas).
Losing two GOP votes could defeat the nomination because Senate is 53-47 and Sen. Mitch McConnell absent, letting a 50-50 tie let Vice President JD Vance break it.

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Story summary

Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) said she will not support Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche’s nomination.
Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) voted against Blanche, citing DOJ politicization and $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund, which was cut after pressure from Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) and John Cornyn (R-Texas).
Losing two GOP votes could defeat the nomination because Senate is 53-47 and Sen. Mitch McConnell absent, letting a 50-50 tie let Vice President JD Vance break it.