DOJ Watchdog Nominee Moves Closer to Senate Confirmation (1)

Donald Berthiaume, the president’s choice for Justice Department inspector general, is a step closer to confirmation after being voted out of a Senate panel.

The veteran federal government watchdog attorney advanced from the Senate Judiciary Committee on Thursday by a tally of 14-8. Berthiaume now heads to the chamber floor where his approval by the full Senate would provide permanent leadership to a DOJ Office of Inspector General that’s been criticized for not investigating the Trump administration’s alleged misconduct.

Berthiaume notched support from all Republicans and two Democrats: Sens. Sheldon Whitehouse (R.I.) and Mazie Hirono (Hawaii). Whitehouse said the nominee ...