Trump pushes for Blanche confirmation despite GOP fund standoff

Republican Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis are refusing to advance Blanche’s confirmation until the Justice Department provides written guarantees that the proposed anti-weaponization fund will not proceed. Critics within the party have labeled the $1.8 billion initiative a slush fund designed to funnel taxpayer money to loyalists, specifically those prosecuted for their roles in the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Trump continues to frame the proposal as a moral imperative, asserting the funds would compensate individuals whose lives were ruined by federal overreach. Beyond the fund, Cornyn and Tillis are also challenging a separate IRS agreement that would shield the president and his associates from future tax audits. Despite the legislative deadlock, Blanche may continue to serve as acting Attorney General indefinitely, as current rules permit acting officials to remain in their roles while a nomination remains pending in the Senate.