Senate Confirms Former Trump Defense Lawyer as AG

Summary

The Senate confirmed Todd Blanche as Attorney General after late-night deal-making, passed a stopgap spending bill averting an immediate shutdown but leaving a December deadline, and approved sweeping Russia sanctions including energy tariffs. President Trump commented on wanting lower rates and the White House attempted new legal avenues to remove Fed governor Lisa Cook, while an executive order on birthright citizenship faces likely court challenges.

• Senate confirms Todd Blanche as AG after holdout Senator Cassidy backs him.
• Stopgap funding bill (CR) passes Senate, extending government funding to December 11.
• Russia sanctions bill passed, allowing tariffs on Russian energy importers and Iran oil sanctions.
• President Trump states desire for lower interest rates and avoids criticizing Fed chair.
• White House sends letter to Fed governor Lisa Cook seeking her removal after Supreme Court rejection.
• New birthright citizenship executive order issued, expected to face legal challenges.