Chicago – August 03, 2026
Republican senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis said they will back Todd Blanche’s nomination after he rescinded a controversial “anti-weaponization” fund that had stalled his confirmation. The move clears a major hurdle for Blanche, President Donald Trump’s pick to lead the Justice Department, ahead of a Senate Judiciary Committee vote.
Senate pressure
Cornyn and Tillis had withheld support until they received written assurances that the department would not create the $1.8 billion fund, which critics described as a possible slush fund for Trump allies. Blanche then issued an order rescinding the fund “and shall have no force or effect,” according to the Justice Department.
What changed?
The senators said they appreciated Blanche and his staff for addressing their concerns and expressed confidence in moving his nomination forward. The committee had scheduled a meeting on Tuesday to consider the nomination.
Why it matters?
The reversal removes a key obstacle in a confirmation process that had briefly appeared in jeopardy. Blanche still needs formal committee approval and subsequent Senate action, but the backing of two holdout Republicans improves his path.
