Bill Cassidy says he will vote to confirm Todd Blanche as attorney general

Republican Senator Bill Cassidy has announced he will support Todd Blanche's nomination for US attorney general, despite criticising some of his previous actions.

Speaking on the Senate floor, Cassidy said Blanche was qualified to lead the Justice Department but questioned his role in creating a controversial "anti-weaponization" fund and a settlement that protected President Donald Trump from certain IRS audits.

"Mr. Blanche said these were mistakes and he has made efforts to kill the slush fund. Mr. Blanche is not perfect, and he will tell you this," Cassidy said, according to CNN.

Cassidy said he reached his decision after holding several discussions with Blanche, fellow Republican senators and former attorney general Bill Barr.

The Louisiana senator also expressed concern about the Justice Department targeting Trump's political opponents but argued Blanche had the legal experience needed to lead the department.

Referring to conversations with Barr, Cassidy said: "He said that any attorney to represent a client well has to have tough conversations and confront a client with difficult truths."

Cassidy acknowledged that both Barr and Blanche had told him "decisions are made by the president."

"This is not a referendum on President Trump," adding: "It is a decision regarding Mr. Blanche in very specific circumstances. All considered, I will vote for Mr. Blanche."

Cassidy's backing strengthens Blanche's confirmation prospects ahead of the Senate vote.