GOP senators clear path for Blanche confirmation after fund reversal

The resolution of the dispute removes the primary obstacle preventing the Senate Judiciary Committee from advancing Blanche’s nomination. Cornyn and Tillis, who had leveraged their support to force changes, confirmed they now expect the committee to act as early as Tuesday. A final floor vote in the Senate could potentially occur by Saturday, contingent on Democratic cooperation.

The fund at the center of the conflict originated from a $10 billion lawsuit filed by Donald Trump against the IRS regarding the handling of his tax records. While proponents framed the settlement as compensation for individuals targeted by federal overreach, skeptics warned the money could reach figures involved in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. Beyond the fund, the senators sought to curb a sweeping immunity order that would have shielded Trump, his family, and his business interests from future tax audits. Blanche issued a binding order narrowing the scope of the tax protection, confirming it applies only retroactively to specific parties and does not grant blanket immunity for future filings. This concession effectively neutralized the revolt, allowing the nomination to proceed.