- Todd Blanche's nomination as permanent attorney general is set to advance after a deal with GOP holdouts, with the Senate Judiciary Committee expected to vote on August 4.
- A full Senate vote on Blanche's nomination could occur before the scheduled August recess.
- Since becoming acting attorney general in April, Blanche has overseen a new prosecution against James Comey and the controversial Trump IRS settlement.
- During a July 15 confirmation hearing, Sen. Chuck Grassley praised Blanche's record, highlighting his success in capturing fugitives and arresting individuals tied to the illegal fentanyl trade.
- On July 27, Sen. John Cornyn expressed his lack of support for Blanche, citing concerns over the DOJ's handling of the anti-weaponization fund.
- On August 3, Cornyn and Sen. Thom Tillis agreed to support Blanche after receiving written confirmation that the anti-weaponization fund would be rescinded.
The Senate Judiciary Committee is set to vote on Todd Blanche's nomination as Attorney General, following a crucial agreement with Republican senators. Blanche's confirmation is not guaranteed, as he faces scrutiny over his handling of Trump's IRS settlement, which has raised ethical concerns.12
Blanche received a significant boost when Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis agreed to support his nomination after he clarified the terms of the IRS settlement. The senators had previously withheld their backing due to worries about the potential revival of an 'anti-weaponization' fund that could benefit January 6th rioters.8910
“Confirm Todd Blanche without delay,” said a supporter, highlighting the urgency of the situation. The committee's vote is expected to take place before the Senate's August recess, but Blanche still requires approval from the full Senate.
The controversy surrounding the IRS settlement, which involves a $10 billion lawsuit from Trump, has complicated Blanche's nomination. Critics argue that the settlement could provide Trump and his family with significant financial benefits, potentially exceeding £100 million.
Despite Blanche's insistence that he is not auditioning for the permanent role, he has accelerated investigations into Trump opponents, drawing criticism for not distancing himself from his previous role as Trump's personal lawyer. “It has to be in writing,” Cornyn stated, emphasizing the need for clarity in the agreement.
As the committee prepares for the vote, the outcome remains uncertain, with Democrats expressing concerns that Blanche's order does not sufficiently prevent future misuse of the fund.
“The deal hinged on written confirmation that the "anti-weaponization" fund is dead; Blanche issued an order Sunday stating "beyond any doubt, that there is no Fund." Democrats say the order doesn't prevent the administration from reviving the fund and have called for legislation to permanently bar it.”
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