Senator Lisa Murkowski, a Republican from Alaska, stated on Friday that she will not support the nomination of Todd Blanche to serve as the official U.S. Attorney General. Blanche is currently serving in an acting capacity, and Murkowski’s opposition complicates the path to his permanent confirmation by narrowing the margin of support within the Senate.

Murkowski’s decision is rooted in her apprehension regarding the incoming Trump administration’s stated intent to potentially provide compensation or support for individuals who participated in the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. Despite Blanche providing written assurances regarding his approach to the role, Murkowski indicated that these concerns remain a primary factor in her decision to withhold her vote. The nomination process for high-level cabinet positions requires a majority vote in the Senate, and with a slim Republican majority, the loss of even a single vote from within the party creates a significant hurdle for the administration’s preferred candidates.

While the administration has framed the nomination as a necessary step to implement their policy agenda, Murkowski’s public break highlights ongoing tensions within the Republican caucus regarding the legacy of the 2020 election and the subsequent events at the Capitol. As of now, the administration has not indicated whether they will adjust their strategy or attempt to sway the senator before a final floor vote is scheduled.