Senate Advances Attorney General Nomination, Passes Russia Sanctions Amid Internal Divisions

Why it matters locally: The confirmation of the Attorney General will impact federal law enforcement priorities and legal interpretations directly affecting New York, while new Russia sanctions could influence economic sectors in the state with international trade ties.

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WASHINGTON D.C. — The U.S. Senate moved toward confirming Todd Blanche as attorney general on a day that also saw the passage of new sanctions against Russia. However, several other legislative initiatives face delays as Republican senators remain divided on various issues. Senators approved a new sanctions bill targeting Russia. This legislation represents the most stringent measures the Senate has passed against Russia to date. Meanwhile, the nomination of Todd Blanche for attorney general progressed. The Senate is now on track to confirm him, though the process has been described as a narrow path. Despite movement on these two items, other high-priority legislative matters encountered obstacles. A split among Republican senators has largely contributed to the stalled progress on these bills, according to congressional correspondent Lisa Desjardins.