Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche's handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case just lost him a crucial Republican senator's support.
Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) announced Friday morning she would not vote to confirm his nomination to lead the Department of Justice — and cited the Epstein files among her reasons why.
"The politicization—even weaponization—of the Department did not start with this administration but has accelerated during it," wrote Murkowski. "I take issue with the handling of the release of the Epstein files; the sweeping immunity protections granted to the President, his family, and their businesses; the statements that have been made to anti-abortion groups; and the repeated targeting of individuals ranging from former administration staff to sitting U.S. Senators."
Murkowski expressed frustration with President Donald Trump's administration, citing his controversial $1.8 billion "Anti-Weaponization Fund" as an example of unchecked power that should be checked.
"I am also keenly aware that the Department’s nearly $2-billion dollar slush fund—which likely would have rewarded January 6 protesters—is only off the table because this nomination is pending and the Senate has leverage," she wrote.
"Once we vote, that will end, and there is no telling what the future holds. The country needs an Attorney General who will check the worst impulses of this administration."
Ultimately, Murkowski said she did not believe Blanche was up to the job.
"I hope Mr. Blanche is able to achieve that, if confirmed," she wrote, "but I simply do not have confidence that will be the case."
Journalist Manu Raju reported Blanche's confirmation now hinges on the vote of Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-LA).
