US Senate narrowly confirms Todd Blanche as attorney general

The US Senate has confirmed Todd Blanche as the nation's next attorney general in a narrow 50–49 vote, concluding a contentious cabinet confirmation fight. Blanche, a former personal lawyer for President Donald Trump, had been leading the Department of Justice in an acting capacity following the dismissal of Pam Bondi on April 2.

The vote saw Republican Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski join Democrats in voting against the nomination amid questions surrounding Blanche's independence. Senator Bill Cassidy cast the decisive vote to seal the confirmation, reasoning that Blanche was the best nominee the administration would put forward.

Blanche now assumes the post permanently amid ongoing debates over executive influence in federal law enforcement.

Sources: BBC News, Der Spiegel, El Día, France24, ORF.