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

Why it matters locally: The advancement of the Attorney General nomination could impact federal law enforcement priorities and resource allocation across the nation, including those affecting North Carolina. New sanctions against Russia may have indirect economic effects on state industries involved in international trade.

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.