Thom Tillis

President Trump suggested temporarily withdrawing Todd Blanche’s nomination for U.S. Attorney General after Republican Senators Cornyn and Tillis blocked a committee vote. The holdouts demand changes to a $1.8 billion IRS settlement granting Trump immunity from audits. Blanche can remain acting AG, but Trump may wait until the senators leave office next year, risking a Democratic Senate takeover.

91 reports · 15 sources · Updated Aug 11, 02:49 PM UTC

The U.S. Department of Justice dropped a vandalism charge against former Olympic canoeist David Hearn, who was accused of damaging the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington, D.C. Prosecutors cited a flawed and rushed renovation—not intentional vandalism—as the cause of the damage. The case had been pursued under the Trump administration, with President Trump publicly criticizing U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro for dismissing it. Hearn’s attorneys called the arrest an abuse of power, and the dismissal undermines remaining vandalism charges.

54 reports · 10 sources · Updated Aug 11, 06:22 PM UTC

On July 30, 2026, the Senate Finance Committee voted 14-13 along party lines to defeat a Democratic amendment that would have blocked the IRS from granting tax audit immunity to a sitting president, their family, or related entities. The amendment aimed to nullify President Trump’s existing $1.8 billion settlement, which includes a fund for victims of alleged political weaponization. Republicans argued the amendment would jeopardize a bipartisan IRS modernization bill, which advanced 26-1.

5 reports · 2 sources · Updated Jul 30, 05:26 PM UTC

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche faced a contentious Senate confirmation hearing on July 15, 2026, where he apologized for failing to redact Epstein victims' names in released documents. He backtracked on a promise to meet survivors, claiming legal prohibitions. Epstein survivor Dani Bensky testified against him, and 19 victims publicly opposed his nomination after reports revealed his role in White House meetings on Epstein file transparency.

26 reports · 6 sources · Updated Jul 29, 03:32 PM UTC

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated President Trump’s “patience is running out” with Senate Majority Leader John Thune over the stalled SAVE Act, which would require voter ID and proof of citizenship. Thune pushed back, urging the White House to secure votes themselves amid a 50-50 Senate. The dispute highlights intra-party tensions as the bill faces a 60-vote threshold, with a potential government shutdown looming in September. Trump has tied the bill’s passage to other legislation, causing a broader legislative stalemate.

24 reports · 4 sources · Updated Jul 31, 03:16 PM UTC

Senate Republicans released a revised cryptocurrency regulatory framework bill on July 22, 2026, adding an ethics section to address potential conflicts of interest for public officials, including the president. The bill, championed by retiring Senator Cynthia Lummis, aims to set a market structure for digital assets. However, Democratic negotiators remain unsatisfied, citing President Donald Trump's crypto ventures and demanding stronger enforcement, including the ability for state attorneys general to act. Key Democrats like Senators Alsobrooks and Booker withheld support, warning the bill could die without a bipartisan deal. With a potential floor vote next week and a filibuster requiring at least seven Democratic votes, the legislative clock is ticking.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 07:57 PM UTC

Senate Republicans released a revised cryptocurrency regulatory framework bill on July 22, 2026, adding an ethics section to address potential conflicts of interest for public officials, including the president, vice president, and members of Congress. The ban on issuing or sponsoring digital assets would sunset on Jan. 20, 2029. Despite this addition, Democratic negotiators remain unsatisfied, citing President Trump's crypto ventures and demanding stronger enforcement, including allowing state attorneys general to act. Key Democratic senators who previously supported the bill now withhold support. Republicans need at least seven Democratic votes to overcome a filibuster. The legislative clock is tight, with a possible floor vote before the August 7 recess.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 07:57 PM UTC

The article analyzes the uncertain confirmation of Todd Blanche as Attorney General, focusing on Senator John Cornyn of Texas as the key swing vote on the Senate Judiciary Committee. Cornyn is dissatisfied with Blanche's refusal to formally kill the 'anti-weaponization fund' deal that protects Trump from IRS audits. A federal judge issued a blistering ruling calling the underlying lawsuit collusive, and an ethics complaint has been filed against Blanche. Senator Thom Tillis has indicated tentative support after a meeting with Epstein survivors. The piece questions why Republican senators who dislike Trump might still hesitate to vote no, citing threats against judges and political intimidation as possible factors.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 07:00 PM UTC

The confirmation of Todd Blanche as Attorney General hangs on a single Republican vote in the Senate Judiciary Committee, with Texas Senator John Cornyn undecided. Cornyn is dissatisfied with Blanche's refusal to confirm in writing that a controversial anti-weaponization fund—part of a deal immunizing Trump from IRS audits—is truly dead. A federal judge ruled the underlying lawsuit was collusive and non-adversarial, and sent the case to the New York State Bar, where over 100 former judges filed an ethics complaint against Blanche. Blanche also faces scrutiny over his handling of the Epstein files. While Senator Thom Tillis appears satisfied after meeting Epstein survivors, Cornyn remains the key holdout. The article notes broader intimidation concerns, citing threats against judges and former Senator Mitt Romney's fear for his safety, questioning whether Cornyn will cave to pressure.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 07:00 PM UTC

The article analyzes Senator John Cornyn's hesitation to vote for Todd Blanche as Attorney General, focusing on Blanche's role in a controversial settlement deal involving an 'anti-weaponization fund' that shields Trump from IRS audits. Cornyn extracted an admission that Trump could still enforce the deal. A federal judge ruled the lawsuit was collusive and referred Blanche to the New York State Bar. Senator Thom Tillis is leaning yes after a meeting with Epstein survivors. The piece also notes threats against judges have surged 57%, and former Senator Mitt Romney feared for his safety, suggesting intimidation may influence Cornyn's decision.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 07:00 PM UTC

Republican lawmakers and candidates are largely ignoring Donald Trump's renewed push to focus on debunked 2020 election fraud claims, as the issue fails to resonate with voters. Following a 25-minute Trump speech demanding mail-in ballot bans and voter roll purges, most GOP candidates are prioritizing other issues like public safety and the economy. North Carolina Senate candidate Michael Whatley, a former Trump supporter on election fraud, held a campaign event without mentioning Trump's priorities. Outgoing Senator John Cornyn questioned the focus on past elections with midterms approaching. Republican strategists note voters care more about affordability and safety. Meanwhile, Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin threatened to fine or jail state officials who refuse to purge voter rolls, though he lacks legal authority to do so. Democrats criticize the address as groundwork for challenging upcoming elections.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 04:03 PM UTC

Republican lawmakers and candidates are largely ignoring former President Donald Trump's recent 25-minute speech reviving debunked 2020 election fraud claims. According to The Washington Post, most GOP candidates are unwilling to revisit the issue as it fails to galvanize voters. For example, North Carolina Senate candidate Michael Whatley held a campaign event focusing on community safety, not Trump's priorities. Outgoing Texas Senator John Cornyn questioned the relevance of discussing the 2020 election with midterms approaching. Republican strategists note that voters are more concerned with the economy and affordability. Meanwhile, Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin threatened to fine or jail state officials who do not purge voter rolls, though he lacks the legal authority to do so. Democrats criticize the speech as groundwork for challenging upcoming midterm elections.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 04:03 PM UTC

Republican leaders in the U.S. Congress are struggling to advance their partisan legislative priorities before the August recess. The week began with the sudden death of Senator Lindsey Graham, who was replaced by his sister Darline Graham. House Speaker Mike Johnson managed to break a legislative blockade and advance a State Department funding bill. However, the unveiling of a $95 billion reconciliation package funding the Iran war, farm aid, and voter ID measures sparked opposition from Republican deficit hawks in both chambers. Senate Majority Leader John Thune acknowledged the difficult path forward, citing a slim majority and the extended absence of Senator Mitch McConnell. The core dispute centers on the SAVE America Act, a voter ID and election overhaul package that lacks sufficient Senate support. Senator Thom Tillis warned that adding complexity like the SAVE Act would hinder progress, advocating for a simpler approach focused on funding the government and reelection.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 11:28 AM UTC

Republican leaders in Congress are struggling to advance their legislative agenda before the August recess, following the sudden death of Senator Lindsey Graham and the swearing-in of his sister Darline Graham. The House managed early wins, including advancing the fiscal 2027 State Department funding bill, but faced significant pushback after unveiling a $95 billion reconciliation package funding the Iran war, farm aid, and voter ID measures without offsets. Senate Majority Leader John Thune acknowledged the difficulty of passing the package through his slim majority, especially with Senator Mitch McConnell's extended absence. The SAVE America Act, a voter ID and election overhaul measure, lacks sufficient Senate votes. Senator Thom Tillis urged simplicity, warning that complex add-ons like the SAVE Act could derail progress. The GOP faces internal divisions over spending offsets and legislative strategy.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 11:28 AM UTC

Republican leaders in the U.S. Congress are struggling to advance their legislative agenda before the August recess. The week began with the sudden death of Senator Lindsey Graham, who was quickly replaced by his sister Darline Graham. The House managed some early wins, including advancing the fiscal 2027 State Department funding bill. However, Speaker Mike Johnson and the White House's unveiling of a $95 billion reconciliation package—funding the Iran war, farm aid, and voter ID measures without offsets—sparked significant opposition from Republican fiscal hawks in both chambers. Senate Majority Leader John Thune acknowledged the difficult path, citing a slim majority and the extended absence of Senator Mitch McConnell. The core dispute centers on the SAVE America Act, a voter ID and election overhaul package that lacks sufficient Senate support. Senator Thom Tillis urged a simpler approach focused on funding the government and reelection, warning that complex partisan measures could derail progress.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 11:28 AM UTC

During a Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee hearing, Republican Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina sharply criticized Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought over the perceived failure of the now-shuttered Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Tillis demanded that Vought name a single DOGE initiative he could describe as 'exquisite,' expressing frustration that he and other senators were left to 'pick up DOGE s**t because people did it wrong.' The exchange highlights ongoing Republican discontent with the efficiency and outcomes of the short-lived government agency.

1 reports · 1 sources

Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), a retiring Republican and vocal critic of the Trump administration, delivered a harsh rebuke of President Trump's top-priority voter ID legislation, the SAVE America Act, on the Senate floor Thursday morning. Tillis threatened to stall the bill if it returns to the Senate, specifically referencing reconciliation procedures. The move underscores deepening intra-party divisions as Tillis, who is not seeking reelection, positions himself against the Trump agenda on election integrity measures. The legislation is a key priority for the Trump administration, and Tillis's threat could complicate its passage in a closely divided Senate.

1 reports · 1 sources

The US Senate has narrowly confirmed Kevin Warsh as the new Chairman of the Federal Reserve, succeeding Jerome Powell. The confirmation vote of 54 to 45 highlights significant political division, with Democrats expressing deep skepticism over Warsh's independence from President Donald Trump. Trump favored Warsh, hoping for aggressive interest rate cuts to stimulate the economy and reduce government debt costs, a stance that previously caused friction with Powell who prioritized controlling inflation. Concerns about the Fed's autonomy were raised even by some Republicans, including Senator Thom Tillis, who initially opposed the nomination due to Trump's pressure tactics against Powell. Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren criticized Warsh as a Trump puppet, citing his substantial financial investments, including holdings in Elon Musk’s SpaceX. Warsh, a former investment banker with a net worth exceeding $100 million, now faces the challenge of leading the central bank while navigating political pressures and managing inflation, which remains elevated at 3.8 percent. His decisions will be made collectively with the Federal Open Market Committee, raising questions about his ability to unilaterally implement Trump's economic preferences.

1 reports · 1 sources

Jerome Powell’s term as Chair of the US Federal Reserve concludes on May 15, 2026, marking the end of a tenure defined by intense political pressure from President Donald Trump. Throughout his leadership, particularly during Trump’s second term, Powell faced aggressive demands for sharper interest rate cuts, which he resisted to preserve the central bank’s independence. Trump publicly criticized Powell, dubbing him “Too Late Powell,” and even threatened to fire him, while launching an investigation into Fed headquarters renovations that found no wrongdoing. Powell will remain on the Board of Governors but will be succeeded as Chair by Trump appointee Kevin Warsh, whose confirmation was delayed until the investigation was suspended. Experts highlight Powell’s legacy as a defender of institutional autonomy against political interference. The transition occurs amidst broader concerns about the Fed’s independence, including the recent firing of Governor Lisa Cook. Powell’s final press conference emphasized the risks political attacks pose to effective monetary policy, underscoring his commitment to keeping economic decisions free from partisan influence despite significant administrative hostility.

1 reports · 1 sources

The CLARITY Act successfully passed the Senate Banking Committee markup hearing with a 15-9 vote, marking a significant step toward becoming law. The legislation received unanimous support from Republican committee members and was joined by two Democrats, while opposition came primarily from minority Democrats led by Ranking Member Senator Elizabeth Warren. Warren argued that the pro-industry crypto bill poses risks to consumers, national security, and the financial system, warning it could undermine securities laws. However, her amendments, including one to remove Blockchain Regulatory Certainty Act language, were rejected or ruled out on parliamentary grounds. Committee Chairman Tim Scott and Senator Thom Tillis praised the bill as a bipartisan compromise providing necessary regulatory certainty for financial innovation. Industry representatives, such as Coinbase Chief Legal Officer Paul Grewal, welcomed the outcome. The act now advances to a full Senate floor vote, expected before the end of May 2026. This development highlights the growing legislative momentum for digital asset regulation in the United States, balancing innovation safeguards with consumer protection measures amidst partisan debate.

1 reports · 1 sources

Former Labor Secretary Robert Reich analyzes the implications of Kevin Warsh’s confirmation as the next Federal Reserve Chair by a 54-45 Senate vote. The article highlights concerns that Warsh may compromise the Fed’s political independence to serve former President Trump’s desire for lower interest rates ahead of the 2026 midterms and 2028 election. Reich notes that Trump previously attacked former Chair Jerome Powell and pursued legal actions against Fed officials to pressure rate cuts. Despite Senator Thom Tillis blocking the nomination until legal threats against Powell were dropped, Democrats largely opposed Warsh, viewing him as politically motivated. Reich argues that Fed independence is crucial for maintaining price stability and preventing inflation from spiraling out of control, citing historical precedents under Volcker and Greenspan. He warns that Warsh’s credibility with financial markets depends on resisting short-term political pressures for economic boosting, especially given rising inflation linked to tariffs and geopolitical conflicts. The author predicts no immediate rate cuts, emphasizing the delicate balance Warsh must strike between political expectations and economic stewardship.

1 reports · 1 sources

The US Senate Banking Committee is scheduled to hold a markup session on May 14 for the CLARITY Act, a significant regulatory framework for the cryptocurrency industry. After passing the House of Representatives in July 2025, the bill faced delays due to disputes between crypto and banking lobbies regarding stablecoin interest offerings. Recent agreements suggest bipartisan support, though amendments and procedural hurdles remain possible. Key Republican supporters on the committee include Chairman Tim Scott, Mike Crapo, Mike Rounds, Thom Tillis, John Neely Kennedy, Bill Hagerty, and Cynthia Lummis. These senators have consistently voted for pro-crypto measures such as the GENIUS Act, SAB 121, and SJ Resolution 3. They advocate for clear regulations to establish the US as a global leader in digital assets, emphasizing market competitiveness and investor protection. Most listed supporters received high ratings from crypto advocacy groups. The article details their legislative histories and public statements supporting the integration of blockchain technology into the American financial system while addressing previous administrative criticisms.

1 reports · 1 sources

The U.S. Senate Banking Committee is conducting a crucial markup hearing for the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act, commonly known as the Clarity Act. This session marks a significant step in establishing a regulatory framework for digital assets, as the 24 committee members debate and vote on numerous proposed amendments to the bill text released earlier in the week. A primary focus of the proceedings is a recently negotiated compromise regarding stablecoin yields, brokered by Senators Thom Tillis and Angela Alsobrooks, which aims to balance interests between the crypto and traditional banking sectors. Despite this agreement, tension remains as banking industry representatives argue the provisions favor crypto firms, evidenced by thousands of letters sent to lawmakers. Additionally, debates continue over potential ethics provisions restricting government officials from holding business ties to the crypto industry, a issue heightened by President Donald Trump’s connections to World Liberty Financial. If approved by the committee, the bill must still undergo reconciliation with the Senate Agriculture Committee and the House of Representatives before reaching the President’s desk for final enactment.

1 reports · 1 sources

With less than six months until the 2026 US midterm elections, Democrats perceive a brightening political landscape despite a map favoring Republicans. Factors contributing to this shift include President Donald Trump’s low approval ratings, an unpopular war, rising gas prices, and historical trends benefiting the party out of power. CQ Roll Call identifies seven incumbent senators as the most vulnerable, a list that includes red-state Republicans, a Republican from a state won by Kamala Harris, and a purple-state Democrat. Notably, Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy faces a challenging primary after voting to convict Trump in 2021, prompting Trump to endorse challenger Julia Letlow. Other vulnerable incumbents face threats from well-funded opposition or primary challenges. The analysis excludes open-seat races resulting from retirements in Michigan, New Hampshire, Minnesota, North Carolina, and Iowa, which remain critical for determining Senate control. Republicans plan significant spending to protect incumbents in Maine, Ohio, and Alaska, while targeting Democratic seats in Georgia. The rankings derive from insider conversations, fundraising data, and independent election analyst ratings, highlighting the intense competition expected in the upcoming cycle.

1 reports · 1 sources

The US Senate has confirmed Kevin Warsh as the new Chair of the Federal Reserve, replacing Jerome Powell. The confirmation vote passed 54-45, largely along party lines, with Democratic Senator John Fetterman breaking ranks to support the nomination. Warsh, a former central bank governor and economist, assumes leadership amid significant political tension. President Donald Trump had previously pressured Powell to lower interest rates and initiated a Department of Justice investigation into Powell’s handling of Fed headquarters renovations, which was recently dropped following judicial criticism of its harassing nature. The Supreme Court is simultaneously reviewing Trump’s earlier dismissal of Fed Governor Lisa Cook. Critics, including Senator Chris Van Hollen, expressed concern that Warsh’s shift toward lower interest rates reflects political pressure rather than economic evidence, especially as inflation rises to 3.8%. Powell’s term as chair expires immediately, though he will remain on the board as a governor. This transition marks a pivotal moment for US monetary policy under the second Trump administration, highlighting ongoing conflicts between executive political demands and central bank independence.

1 reports · 1 sources

The US Senate has confirmed Kevin Warsh, President Donald Trump’s nominee, to lead the Federal Reserve, marking a significant leadership change at the central bank amid global economic uncertainty. Warsh, a former Fed governor and financier, will replace Jerome Powell whose term expires in May. The confirmation follows a contentious period involving political pressure from Trump for lower interest rates and a dropped Justice Department investigation into Powell. Warsh plans a "regime change" at the Fed, aiming for tighter coordination with the Treasury and a smaller balance sheet to facilitate lower policy rates. His appointment has sparked market volatility, with precious metals crashing, and raised concerns among Democrats about the Fed's independence. Critics, including Senator Elizabeth Warren, fear Warsh may prioritize Trump’s demands over inflation control, although Warsh denied any commitment to specific rate decisions during hearings. The move occurs as inflation rises above the Fed’s target due to surging oil prices linked to the Iran war, creating a fraught environment for monetary policy. Warsh’s confirmation was largely along party lines, clearing the path for his four-year term as chair and a 14-year term as governor.

1 reports · 1 sources

The Digital Asset Market Clarity Act, a landmark bill establishing a U.S. regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies, is approaching a critical Senate Banking Committee markup. Although the legislation passed the House last year, it faces significant hurdles regarding stablecoin yield rewards and ethical concerns. A recent compromise between Senators Thom Tillis and Angela Alsobrooks on stablecoin yields has drawn sharp criticism from banking groups, who fear deposit erosion. Simultaneously, Democrats are pushing for strict ethics guardrails to address potential conflicts of interest involving President Trump’s family crypto ventures. With over 130 amendments filed, including many from Senator Elizabeth Warren, the committee aims to balance innovation with national security and consumer protection. While key Republican holdout Senator John Kennedy now supports the bill, its passage remains uncertain due to political tensions and the approaching summer recess. Prediction markets currently estimate a 60% chance of enactment this year. The outcome of this markup will determine whether the bill proceeds to the full Senate floor, marking a pivotal moment for the American crypto industry’s regulatory future.

1 reports · 1 sources

The US Senate has confirmed Kevin Warsh as the new chairman of the Federal Reserve, succeeding Jerome Powell. The nomination, put forward by President Trump, was approved by a vote of 54 to 45, reflecting significant partisan division unusual for such appointments. Warsh faces a complex economic landscape characterized by rapidly rising inflation, which reached 3.8 percent in April due to geopolitical tensions involving Iran. This inflationary pressure conflicts with President Trump’s demands for lower interest rates to stimulate the economy. Warsh has pledged to maintain the Fed's independence and resist political manipulation. Complicating matters further, former chairman Jerome Powell will remain on the board as a governor and voting member, citing concerns over the institution's autonomy following a criminal investigation into his tenure. The confirmation process was delayed by Senator Thom Tillis, who objected until the Justice Department transferred the investigation into Powell to the Fed’s regulator. Analysts anticipate intense pressure on Warsh to balance economic stability with presidential expectations, marking a contentious transition for the US central bank.

1 reports · 1 sources

The US Senate has confirmed President Donald Trump's nominee, Kevin Warsh, as the new Chair of the Federal Reserve. This confirmation occurs during a challenging period for the global economy, marked by inflation exceeding the Fed's two percent target for five years and rising gas prices. The vote was largely along party lines, following months of uncertainty after Republican Senator Thom Tillis blocked the nomination pending a Justice Department investigation into former Chair Jerome Powell. That probe was dropped in April, paving the way for Warsh's approval. Senate Majority Leader John Thune emphasized Warsh's understanding of both macroeconomic trends and the livelihoods of everyday Americans. Warsh, a former top Fed official, inherits a divided interest-rate committee that recently recorded its highest number of dissenting votes in over three decades. Meanwhile, Jerome Powell plans to remain on the Fed's board after his term ends, potentially creating a competing power center amidst ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and the central bank's independence.

1 reports · 1 sources

The US Senate has confirmed Kevin Warsh as the new chairman of the Federal Reserve, succeeding Jerome Powell. The confirmation occurred via a largely party-line vote after previous delays caused by a Justice Department investigation into Powell, which was dropped in April. Warsh, a former Fed official and wealthy investor, takes leadership during a challenging economic period marked by persistent inflation above the 2% target and rising gas prices. His appointment has sparked significant debate regarding the central bank's independence, with critics fearing he may align interest rate decisions with President Trump's political preferences rather than economic data. While Warsh denied any pressure from Trump to cut rates and pledged to act independently, Democrats have criticized his lack of transparency regarding his substantial wealth and investments in entities like SpaceX and Polymarket. Warsh has advocated for reduced Fed communication transparency, arguing it hinders policy flexibility. Meanwhile, outgoing Chair Powell plans to remain on the Fed board, potentially creating internal tension. This leadership change marks a pivotal moment for US monetary policy amid global economic uncertainty and heightened political scrutiny of the central bank.

1 reports · 1 sources