Susan Collins Opposes Todd Blanche for Attorney General as Maine Poll Shows 49-46 Deficit
Updated
Updated · ms.now · Aug 7
Susan Collins Opposes Todd Blanche for Attorney General as Maine Poll Shows 49-46 Deficit
3 articles · Updated · ms.now · Aug 7
Summary
Susan Collins said Wednesday she will oppose Todd Blanche’s attorney general nomination, ending weeks of silence and citing actions she said further eroded Justice Department independence.
Collins pointed to Blanche’s approval of a Trump-IRS arrangement that she said shielded Trump, his sons and the family business from audits, and to his call with religious leaders promising a broader anti-abortion push.
Her opposition may have little practical effect: Blanche is still one Senate vote short of confirmation after John Curtis backed him, while Lisa Murkowski has also announced opposition and Bill Cassidy could cast the deciding vote.
A University of New Hampshire poll helps explain the timing, showing Collins trailing Democrat Troy Jackson 49-46 and facing majority job disapproval in Maine.
The move also highlights a gap between Collins’ rhetoric and record, with critics noting she has supported Trump’s agenda nearly 95% of the time and has not backed Democratic bills to strengthen DOJ independence.