Ankara: The US Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday advanced Todd Blanche's nomination to serve as the next attorney general in a 12-10 vote, clearing a key hurdle and putting him on track to be confirmed in the full Senate.

According to Anadolu Agency, Blanche, a former personal lawyer to President Donald Trump who is currently serving as acting attorney general, has faced criticism from Democrats over concerns about the Justice Department's independence under his leadership, including questions over whether he is serving the country or still acting as Trump's personal lawyer.

Sen. Chris Coons, the committee's top Democrat, voiced opposition to Blanche before the vote, saying American "citizens want and truly deserve an independent and transparent Department of Justice." Coons expressed doubt that Blanche could deliver on that goal.

Sen. Adam Schiff also urged senators to reject Blanche's nomination, warning that allowing a president to use the attorney general to pursue his political opponents would undermine the rule of law. Schiff stated that confirming an attorney general who believes the president has the right to use him against his enemies would compromise the integrity of the Justice Department.

The committee's vote sends Blanche's nomination to the Republican-controlled Senate, where lawmakers will ultimately decide whether to confirm him as attorney general. With the Senate's current composition, confirmation is seen as likely.

Trump has expressed his support for Blanche, asserting that he will do "a great job." Trump mentioned that Blanche agreed to reconfirm his previous commitments, including rescinding a controversial $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization' fund. This fund has raised concerns among senators who fear it could be used to reward individuals who broke the law to benefit Trump, including those involved in the January 6 Capitol riot.

Blanche has served as acting attorney general since April, following the dismissal of Pam Bondi from the post by Trump.