Senator Susan Collins Opposes President Trump's Attorney General Nominee, Citing Concerns Over DOJ Independence
Senator Susan Collins has announced her decision not to support President Trump's nominee for Attorney General, Todd Blanche. The Senate Judiciary Committee recently voted 12-10 along party lines to advance Blanche's nomination to the full Senate. Collins, a Republican, expressed concerns over Blanche's actions that she believes have compromised the Department of Justice's independence. She cited specific instances, such as Blanche's approval of an order to shield the president and his family from IRS audits and his involvement in a $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund. Collins' opposition comes amid criticism from the Maine Democratic Party, which accused her of delaying her stance until Blanche's confirmation seemed likely.