President Donald Trump has nominated Todd Blanche, the acting U.S. attorney general, for the permanent position, setting the stage for a contentious Senate confirmation battle.

US President Donald Trump nominated Todd Blanche, acting US attorney general, to fill the position on a permanent basis, rewarding a loyal ally whose controversial actions ensure an uphill Senate confirmation fight. The White House announced on Monday it had sent Blanche’s nomination to the Senate, a move Trump telegraphed last week during remarks at a private event in the Rose Garden. Blanche formerly served as one of Trump’s personal lawyers before the president picked him for the No 2...