Two Republican senators threaten to block Trump AG nominee Todd Blanche

Published Jul 28, 01:05 PM UTC

Two outgoing Republican senators, Thom Tillis and John Cornyn, are threatening to block Todd Blanche's nomination for attorney general. Their primary concern is the status of President Trump's $1.776 billion 'Anti-Weaponization Fund,' a controversial fund providing financial assistance to those who feel attacked for supporting Trump. During Blanche's confirmation hearing, he claimed the fund was dead, but Cornyn demands a written agreement to that effect, noting no written document exists. Tillis also wants changes to the IRS settlement agreement that created the fund and granted the Trump family immunity from future audits. Additionally, Tillis had previously threatened to block Blanche unless he met with Jeffrey Epstein survivors; Blanche did so, but survivors described the meeting as 'demoralizing' and accused him of political posturing. Blanche needs the support of all 11 Republicans on the Senate Judiciary Committee to advance; with Cornyn and Tillis opposed, his nomination appears in jeopardy. The committee is scheduled to vote on Thursday.