Trump Threatens to Withdraw AG Nominee Blanche Over GOP Senate Holdouts
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.
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Blanche Clears Key Senate Committee Hurdle for Justice Department Nomination
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche moved closer to permanently leading the Justice Department after two skeptical Republican senators, John Cornyn and Thom Tillis, voted to advance his nomination from the Senate Judiciary Committee. The senators secured a signed promise from Blanche that President Trump's nearly $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization' fund is rescinded. The fund was created as part of a deal where Trump dropped a $10 billion lawsuit against the IRS in exchange for tax enforcement immunity for himself, his sons, and the Trump Organization. Democrats on the committee unanimously opposed Blanche, raising concerns about his handling of the Epstein files, meetings with Ghislaine Maxwell, and promises to make abortion restrictions permanent. The full Senate will now consider the nomination, though a vote timeline is unclear.
Todd Blanche Advances Toward Confirmation as Attorney General After Pledging to Rescind Trump's Anti-Weaponization Fund
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche cleared a key Senate Judiciary Committee hurdle on Tuesday, advancing his nomination to lead the Justice Department with a 12-10 party-line vote. Two skeptical Republican senators, John Cornyn and Thom Tillis, voted to advance Blanche after he signed a statement promising to rescind President Trump's nearly $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization' fund, which critics said could pay pardoned January 6 rioters. Blanche, Trump's former criminal defense lawyer, also issued an unsigned memo stating that a tax immunity deal for Trump and his family applies only retroactively. Democrats on the committee unanimously opposed Blanche, raising concerns about his handling of the Epstein files, a meeting with Ghislaine Maxwell, lawsuits over voter records, and promises to make abortion restrictions permanent. The full Senate will now consider Blanche's confirmation, though a timeline is unclear.
GOP Senator Admits Blanche Is Pretty Bad as He Votes to Confirm Him
Republican Senator Thom Tillis voted to confirm acting Attorney General Todd Blanche despite publicly criticizing him and the Justice Department's conduct. Tillis acknowledged the administration's 'absurdity' and 'weaponization' but supported Blanche after receiving a written DOJ statement where Blanche purportedly agreed to end the $1.776 billion 'Anti-Weaponization Fund' created by Trump's IRS settlement. However, Democrats noted the memo left loopholes preserving the fund and Trump's IRS audit immunity. Separately, Blanche was recorded on a private prayer call promising to make the Supreme Court's Dobbs abortion decision 'permanent in every single state' and to use the Comstock Act to block abortion pills, contradicting his confirmation hearing testimony. Tillis, who is leaving the Senate next year, was accused of putting politics over principle.
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GOP Senator Tillis Admits Todd Blanche Is 'Pretty Bad' but Votes to Confirm Him as Attorney General
Republican Senator Thom Tillis, despite publicly criticizing acting Attorney General Todd Blanche and acknowledging the Justice Department's intensifying politicization, voted to confirm Blanche. Tillis defended his vote by arguing both parties have contributed to the weaponization of government, referencing the Biden and Obama administrations. The confirmation controversy stems from a Trump administration settlement with the IRS that created a $1.776 billion 'anti-weaponization fund' and granted Trump family immunity from audits. Tillis and Senator John Cornyn initially withheld support but changed their minds after a DOJ memo purportedly agreeing to end the fund, though loopholes remain. Separately, Blanche was recorded on a private prayer call promising to make the Supreme Court's Dobbs abortion decision 'permanent in every single state' and to use the Comstock Act to block abortion pills, contradicting his confirmation hearing testimony. Democrats argue a vote for Blanche is a vote for nationwide abortion restrictions.
Blanche approved by Judiciary Committee, Trump's AG nominee heads to full Senate vote
Todd Blanche, President Donald Trump's nominee for Attorney General, was approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee in a 12-10 party-line vote on August 4, 2026. The vote followed a deal Blanche struck with Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis to end the controversial 'anti-weaponization fund,' which had stalled his nomination. Democrats criticized the deal as a sham, expressing concerns the fund could be revived. Blanche, currently acting attorney general and Trump's former personal attorney, now faces a full Senate vote where he needs 50 votes for confirmation. With Republicans holding a 53-47 majority and Senator Mitch McConnell absent, Blanche can afford only two defections. Several GOP senators, including Lisa Murkowski, Bill Cassidy, and Susan Collins, have not committed to supporting him.
Todd Blanche Nomination Advances After GOP Senators Cave to Trump
The Senate Judiciary Committee voted along party lines to advance Todd Blanche's nomination for Attorney General to the full Senate. Democrats strongly opposed, with Senator Sheldon Whitehouse calling Blanche 'probably the most discreditable person ever to seek the office.' Outgoing Republican Senators Thom Tillis and John Cornyn initially held up the nomination over concerns about a $1.8 billion DOJ slush fund but ultimately fell in line after vague assurances from the acting attorney general. Hundreds of federal prosecutors urged rejection, citing Blanche's willingness to fire career prosecutors and FBI agents to satisfy Trump's political interests, his belief that Trump has a right to shape federal probes, mishandling of the Epstein files, and repeated refusals to meet with Epstein's victims. Critics argue Blanche cannot remain independent of the White House.
Todd Blanche Nomination Advances After GOP Senators Bow to Trump
The Senate Judiciary Committee voted along party lines to advance Todd Blanche's nomination for U.S. Attorney General to the full Senate. Democrats strongly opposed the nomination, with Senator Sheldon Whitehouse calling it a 'sad and embarrassing day' and labeling Blanche 'probably the most discreditable person ever to seek the office.' Republican Senators Thom Tillis and John Cornyn initially held up the nomination over concerns about a $1.8 billion DOJ slush fund but ultimately fell in line after vague assurances. Hundreds of federal prosecutors urged rejection, citing Blanche's willingness to fire career prosecutors and FBI agents to satisfy Trump's political interests, his belief that Trump has a 'right' to shape federal probes, mishandling of the Epstein files, and refusal to meet with Epstein's victims. Critics argue Blanche cannot remain independent of the White House.
Senate Judiciary Committee Approves Todd Blanche as Attorney General After Initial Delay
The Senate Judiciary Committee approved Todd Blanche's nomination as Attorney General in a party-line vote on Tuesday, sending it to the full Senate. The vote was delayed last week after Republican Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis withheld their support until the Justice Department modified a settlement agreement with the IRS, including rescinding a $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization' fund intended to compensate individuals who felt the DOJ was weaponized against them, including January 6 rioters. Blanche issued orders Sunday stating the fund would not move forward and narrowed the scope of an immunity agreement, though critics argue these orders are legally deficient as the settlement requires written agreement from all parties. Democrats criticized Blanche as operating as the president's personal lawyer. The full Senate vote is expected soon, potentially before the August recess, where Blanche can afford to lose only two Republican votes. Key swing votes include Senators Cassidy, Murkowski, and Collins.
Todd Blanche Secures Key Republican Support, Clearing Way for Attorney General Confirmation
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has secured the backing of key Republican holdouts Senators Thom Tillis and John Cornyn after abandoning plans for a $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponisation' fund. The fund, proposed earlier in exchange for President Donald Trump dropping a $10bn lawsuit against the IRS over a tax return leak, faced fierce bipartisan criticism over concerns it would compensate Trump allies prosecuted during the Biden administration. Blanche provided written assurances the fund was dropped, clearing the path for his confirmation. Trump suggested he might withdraw Blanche's nomination if the senators remained opposed but reiterated support for his former personal lawyer. The article also covers the Michigan Senate race as a test of Democratic foreign policy divisions, Iran denying Trump's ceasefire claims, and Japan confirming a historic joint intervention with US support to bolster the yen.
Todd Blanche's Attorney General Nomination Advances After Senate Committee Deal
The Senate Judiciary Committee voted 12-10 along party lines to favorably report Todd Blanche's nomination to be U.S. Attorney General, advancing it after a delay caused by Republican concerns over a Trump administration 'weaponization' fund. Key GOP holdouts Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) voted in favor after striking a deal to rescind a $1.8 billion compensation fund and limit other aspects of an IRS settlement. Chairman Chuck Grassley supported the move, saying the Justice Department has 'thrived' under Blanche. Democrats, led by Ranking Member Dick Durbin, argued that Blanche's written assurances are 'decorative' and legally unenforceable, warning the fund could be revived after confirmation. Cornyn stated it is 'highly unlikely' the fund will be revived, relying on Blanche's word. The nomination now moves to the full Senate for a vote.
Todd Blanche's Attorney General Nomination Advances After Senate Committee Deal
The Senate Judiciary Committee voted 12-10 along party lines to favorably report Todd Blanche's nomination to be Attorney General, advancing it to the full Senate. The vote was delayed by Republican Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis over concerns about a $1.8 billion 'weaponization' compensation fund created by an IRS settlement brokered by Blanche. A deal was struck to rescind the fund and limit tax audit immunity for President Trump and his family. Democrats argued the written assurances are unenforceable and 'decorative.' Senator Susan Collins announced she will oppose Blanche on the floor, citing politicization of the Justice Department, the fund, attempts to indict Democratic senators, and promises to anti-abortion groups. Chairman Chuck Grassley supported Blanche, saying the DOJ has 'thrived' under his acting tenure.
Todd Blanche Poised for Attorney General Confirmation After Rescinding Trump Fund
Todd Blanche, President Trump's nominee for Attorney General, is poised for a confirmation vote after reaching a deal with Republican holdouts to rescind a fund established to protect Trump from legal 'weaponization.' The fund, which had drawn criticism from some GOP senators, was ordered to be dismantled with direct involvement from the White House. Key holdouts, including Senators who had expressed concerns, have now announced their support for Blanche's nomination, clearing the path for his confirmation. The deal resolves a major obstacle to Blanche's appointment, though some political drama remains.
Trump Confirms He Didn't Sign Order Killing $1.8 Billion Fund, Signaling Possible Revival
President Donald Trump confirmed Monday that he did not sign Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche's order rescinding the Justice Department's $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization fund,' which was intended to benefit Trump's political allies, including January 6 rioters. The fund was created through a settlement agreement between the IRS and Trump, which stipulates modifications require written agreement from both parties. Blanche's order, signed only by himself, may be legally non-binding, potentially allowing the fund to be revived. Despite legal concerns, key GOP Senators Cornyn and Tillis said the order is sufficient to support Blanche's confirmation. Trump defended the fund as 'very fair' and suggested it could provide solace to January 6 defendants. Legal experts and critics argue the order is 'hollow' and could be undone after Blanche's confirmation. The Senate Judiciary Committee is expected to approve Blanche's nomination.
Blanche's Concessions Expose Phony Trump IRS Settlement
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche rescinded his May 18 order creating a $1.8 billion 'Anti-Weaponization Fund' for Trump supporters, and modified IRS immunity granted to Trump, to secure confirmation votes from Republican Senators Cornyn and Tillis. The article argues the underlying 'settlement' of Trump's lawsuit against the IRS was a sham, as the lawsuit was legally doomed (missed deadline, self-dealing) and the Justice Department did not contest it. Blanche's unilateral withdrawal of the fund contradicts the pretense of a binding settlement, and Trump continues to publicly advocate for the fund, casting doubt on Blanche's promises. The analysis concludes the arrangement was brazenly corrupt and Blanche's role makes him unfit to lead the Justice Department.
Todd Blanche Wins Key Confirmation Holdouts—But Questions Over Trump’s $1.8 Billion Fund Linger
Sens. John Cornyn and Thom Tillis announced support for Todd Blanche's confirmation as attorney general after he issued orders rescinding the Justice Department's controversial $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization fund' and narrowing an immunity deal with President Trump. The fund was meant to compensate Trump's political allies, including Jan. 6 rioters. Critics argue Blanche's order may not be legally binding because the original settlement requires both parties' written agreement to modify it, and only Blanche signed. Legal experts warn the fund could be revived after confirmation. The immunity deal was clarified to apply only retroactively and only to named parties in Trump's IRS lawsuit, excluding other Trump-affiliated businesses. Despite lingering concerns, Cornyn and Tillis said the order is sufficient to advance Blanche's nomination.
Blanche Rescinds Anti-Weaponization Fund, Limits Trump Tax Audit Immunity
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche formally rescinded a controversial $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization fund' that would have compensated allies of President Donald Trump. He also agreed to limit the scope of Trump's tax audit immunity, clarifying it applies only retroactively and does not protect future tax filings. These concessions were made after negotiations with Republican Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis, who threatened to block Blanche's confirmation as permanent head of the Justice Department. A Senate Judiciary Committee vote on his nomination is scheduled for Tuesday, with GOP leaders hoping to confirm him by the end of the week.
Blanche rescinds anti-weaponization fund, limits Trump tax immunity
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche formally rescinded a controversial $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization fund' that would have compensated President Donald Trump's allies. He also agreed to limit the scope of Trump's tax audit immunity, clarifying it applies only retroactively and does not protect future tax filings. These actions followed negotiations with Republican Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis, who threatened to block Blanche's nomination as permanent DOJ head. Blanche had previously sworn in Senate hearings that the fund was dead, but senators wanted written assurance. A Senate Judiciary Committee vote on Blanche's nomination is scheduled for Tuesday, with GOP leaders hoping to confirm him by week's end.
Blanche rescinds anti-weaponization fund, limits Trump tax immunity
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche formally rescinded a controversial $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization fund' that would have compensated President Donald Trump's allies. He also agreed to limit the scope of Trump's tax audit immunity, which was part of a settlement after Trump sued the IRS for leaking his tax returns. The moves follow negotiations with Republican Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis, who threatened to block Blanche's nomination as permanent DOJ head. Blanche had previously sworn in Senate hearings the fund was dead, but senators wanted written assurance. Blanche clarified that tax immunity for Trump and his family applies only retroactively, not to future filings. A Senate Judiciary Committee vote on Blanche's nomination is scheduled for Tuesday, with GOP leaders hoping to confirm him by week's end.
GOP Senators Accept Blanche's Vague Memo, Clearing Path for Confirmation
Republican Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis have dropped their opposition to acting Attorney General Todd Blanche's full confirmation after receiving a Justice Department memo that they claim terminates the controversial $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization' fund. Critics, however, argue that Blanche's memo is a deceptive ploy that preserves the fund in substance and fails to revoke Trump's underlying IRS immunity arrangement. The fund, which originated from a deal Trump made with himself after dropping a lawsuit against the IRS, would have provided taxpayer-funded reparations to individuals claiming political persecution. Despite the memo, Trump has publicly stated he wishes the fund were still active, raising doubts about its true demise. Legal experts and attorneys have criticized the senators for accepting what they call a paltry litmus test, noting that a settlement agreement cannot be unilaterally altered.
GOP Senator Cornyn Falls for Todd Blanche's Ploy to Save Anti-Weaponization Fund
Texas Senator John Cornyn, in his final term after losing a primary to a Trump-endorsed candidate, accepted acting Attorney General Todd Blanche's vague assurances regarding the $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization' fund. Cornyn had previously demanded the fund be formally terminated as a condition for supporting Blanche's promotion. Blanche released a memo that appeared to rescind the fund but used language suggesting it would be preserved and failed to terminate Trump's IRS immunity arrangement. Despite criticism, Cornyn's office announced an agreement with the DOJ to permanently end the fund. The fund originated from a deal Trump made with himself after dropping a lawsuit against the IRS, including an addendum immunizing Trump from federal prosecution. Trump has publicly stated he wishes the fund were not dead, and analysts view Blanche's actions as evidence the fund is not truly terminated.