The Senate Judiciary Committee has postponed a vote on Todd Blanche’s nomination for attorney general after two Republican senators raised concerns over a controversial settlement involving former President Donald Trump and the Internal Revenue Service.
The committee was scheduled to decide whether to advance Blanche’s nomination to the full Senate, but Republican Sens. John Cornyn of Texas and Thom Tillis of North Carolina requested additional written assurances from the Justice Department before supporting the nomination.
Committee Chairman Sen. Chuck Grassley said the delay was intended to allow further discussions and secure enough support for Blanche’s confirmation. A committee spokesperson said the goal was to ensure Trump’s nominee moved forward successfully rather than face defeat during the committee process.
GOP Senators Seek Changes to Trump-IRS Settlement
The dispute centers on a settlement connected to a lawsuit Trump filed over the disclosure of his tax records. The agreement included the creation of an “anti-weaponization” fund and provisions related to IRS audits involving Trump, his family members, and his businesses.
Cornyn and Tillis have argued that the agreement requires additional clarification and changes before they can support Blanche’s nomination. Tillis said his conditions include eliminating the anti-weaponization fund and narrowing protections related to IRS audit provisions.
Tillis indicated that the Justice Department had made progress toward addressing some of his concerns but said questions remained about who would receive protections under the settlement.
Justice Department Continues Negotiations
A Justice Department official said the department had submitted revised language to address the senators’ concerns and that discussions were ongoing.
Cornyn said he had not yet received written proposals that addressed his requests. He argued that the Senate Judiciary Committee has a responsibility to carefully review judicial and law enforcement nominees before holding confirmation votes.
The delay leaves uncertainty over when the committee will reschedule Blanche’s nomination vote.
Blanche’s Path to Confirmation Faces New Challenges
Blanche previously served as President Trump’s personal defense attorney before becoming a senior Justice Department official. He later became acting attorney general after Trump removed Pam Bondi from the position.
During his confirmation hearing, Blanche rejected claims that he would simply follow Trump’s wishes, saying he would not act as a “yes man” for the president.
However, critics have questioned his independence due to his past role representing Trump and his involvement in several politically sensitive Justice Department matters.
Political Tensions Surround Nomination
The disagreement highlights divisions within the Republican Party over the scope of presidential influence on the Justice Department. Both Cornyn and Tillis have previously challenged some Trump-backed positions, adding complexity to Blanche’s confirmation process.
With the Judiciary Committee vote delayed, Blanche’s nomination now depends on whether the administration can reach an agreement with the Republican senators before the committee reconvenes.
