Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana announced he will support Todd Blanche, President Trump’s pick for attorney general, despite expressing reservations about the nominee. The decision gives Republicans enough votes to confirm Blanche, salvaging a confirmation that had appeared uncertain.

Cassidy, a Republican who has occasionally broken with the president, cited Blanche’s legal experience and commitment to the rule of law as reasons for his support. He acknowledged concerns about Blanche’s past statements but concluded that the nominee would uphold the Justice Department’s independence.

The announcement shifts the vote count, with at least 51 senators now backing Blanche. Democrats have uniformly opposed the nomination, arguing that Blanche would politicize the department. Cassidy’s move drew criticism from some conservative groups, but GOP leaders praised it as a pragmatic step.

Blanche, a former federal prosecutor and defense attorney, is expected to be confirmed later this week. His appointment would place a loyalist at the helm of the Justice Department, a key priority for the president. Cassidy’s support ensures a smoother path, avoiding a tie-breaking vote by the vice president.