Murkowski to oppose Todd Blanche nomination, narrowing his path to confirmation

By Kaanita Iyer, CNN

(CNN) — Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska said Friday she will vote against Todd Blanche’s nomination to be attorney general, narrowing his chances at confirmation for the role.

Murkowski said the so-called anti-weaponization fund was a factor in her decision, arguing that the $1.8 billion fund — which was only rescinded as Blanche’s nomination was in limbo — could be brought back if he is confirmed.

“The country needs an Attorney General who will check the worst impulses of this administration,” Murkowski said. “I hope Mr. Blanche is able to achieve that, if confirmed, but I simply do not have confidence that will be the case.”

With Sen. Mitch McConnell absent from the Senate, Blanche cannot afford to lose any more Republican votes. The nomination now hinges on how Sen. Bill Cassidy, one of the most prominent GOP critics of President Donald Trump, will vote.

This is a breaking news story and will be updated with additional information.

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