Senate Confirms Todd Blanche as Attorney General

Why it matters locally: The confirmation of a new Attorney General will influence federal legal and enforcement priorities that directly affect Rhode Island's various industries and its justice system. Decisions made by the Department of Justice under his leadership could impact federal funding for state programs and the handling of cases with interstate implications for the state.

---

The Senate confirmed Todd Blanche as Attorney General early Saturday morning, concluding a vote that elevated him to lead the Justice Department. Senators approved Blanche by a 50-49 vote. He previously served as President Trump's personal lawyer. Blanche appeared before the Senate Judiciary Committee for his confirmation hearing on July 15, 2026. The committee reviewed his qualifications and experience for the role.