Senate Confirms Todd Blanche as Attorney General

Why it matters locally: The confirmation of a new U.S. Attorney General will directly affect the enforcement of federal laws and the operation of federal agencies within Oklahoma, influencing areas from environmental regulations to criminal justice matters across the state.

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WASHINGTON – The Senate confirmed Todd Blanche as the new U.S. Attorney General early Saturday morning. Senators approved his nomination in a vote largely divided along party lines. The confirmation followed several weeks of consideration within the Senate. During this period, some senators from both major parties expressed reservations. These lawmakers raised questions regarding Blanche's capacity to lead the Justice Department independently of President Donald Trump's directives. His confirmation concludes a period of anticipation surrounding the leadership of the Justice Department. Blanche now assumes the role of the nation's chief law enforcement officer.