GOP holdouts back Blanche for AG after withdrawal of Trump’s ‘anti-weaponization’ fund

Republican holdout senators have announced their support for Todd Blanche's nomination to serve as Attorney General, ending a standoff over a controversial "anti-weaponization" fund. Senators John Cornyn of Texas and Thom Tillis of North Carolina had previously blocked Blanche's confirmation, demanding written assurances regarding the fund's termination and the scope of an associated tax immunity deal.

The breakthrough came after Acting Attorney General Blanche formally rescinded the order establishing the $1.8 billion fund, which was intended to compensate allies of President Donald Trump who claimed unfair prosecution. Critics had widely condemned the fund as a "slush fund" for Trump supporters, including those involved in the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot. Blanche also clarified that the tax immunity provision of the settlement, which stemmed from a lawsuit between Trump and the IRS, would be limited in scope.

With the agreement reached, the Senate Judiciary Committee is now expected to advance Blanche's nomination to the full Senate. However, questions remain about the fund's long-term fate, as President Trump reportedly did not sign Blanche's order to rescind it, potentially leaving the door open for its revival in the future.