Senate blocks confirmation of deputy attorney general

Following the failed cloture vote, Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) warned that the Republicans’ stubbornness on the matter could have national-security implications. 

“Senate Republicans have chosen to filibuster his nomination as deputy attorney general of the United States, the second highest position at the Justice Department with critical national-security responsibilities,” said Leahy. “This is the wrong filibuster at the wrong time.”

The Senate rejected Cole’s confirmation once last year, but President Obama recess-appointed him to the position, which allows him to fill the role for the remainder of 2011.

The Senate adjourned at about 7 p.m.