Senate panel advances Trump’s AG nominee after slush fund deal

The Senate Judiciary Committee voted along party lines to advance Todd Blanche’s nomination for attorney general on August 4.7,8,11,12 Blanche secured support from Republican Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis after agreeing to scrap a $1.8 billion fund described by critics as a potential "slush fund" for Trump allies.2,5,10 The fund, labeled an "anti-weaponization" account, was proposed to provide settlements to individuals including January 6 rioters, according to reports.5

Democrats and legal experts criticized the deal as weak, arguing it could be easily reversed by President Trump and did not prevent future slush funds.3,4 Blanche’s nomination now requires a majority vote in the full Senate to be confirmed, where 50 votes are needed.12,13 During a private call with faith leaders, Blanche stated he planned to make the Dobbs abortion decision "permanent" in every state, according to a report.14

The Senate Judiciary Committee’s vote followed weeks of stalled proceedings over concerns about Blanche’s ties to Trump and past legal work.9,10 Blanche has served as acting attorney general since Trump’s second term began, replacing a previous acting holder of the role.5,9 Republican senators reportedly viewed Trump’s push for the fund and other policies as potentially harmful to their political prospects in upcoming elections.6

The fund’s cancellation was framed by supporters as a necessary step to secure Blanche’s confirmation and avoid further delays.2,5 Critics argued the fund’s structure raised questions about the Department of Justice’s independence and potential misuse of federal resources.3,4 The Senate Judiciary Committee’s approval sends Blanche’s nomination to the full Senate, where a final vote is expected this week.8,9,13

Blanche previously served as a federal prosecutor in Washington, D.C., and was involved in cases related to the January 6 Capitol riot.5,10