Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday as part of his confirmation process to lead the Department of Justice permanently. During the hearing, Blanche faced questioning regarding a $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization fund' and a settlement related to a lawsuit over the release of Donald Trump’s tax information. While Blanche stated that the fund is currently 'dead,' he acknowledged under questioning that the underlying settlement remains an enforceable contract.
Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) expressed dissatisfaction with Blanche's testimony, stating that the settlement could allow the fund to be revived through future litigation. Cornyn, along with Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), has not yet committed to supporting the nomination. Because Democrats are expected to vote against the confirmation, a single Republican 'no' vote in the Judiciary Committee could prevent the nomination from reaching the Senate floor.
Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-IA) stated he remains confident that Republican concerns will be addressed and that Blanche will be confirmed before the August recess. Conversely, Senate Judiciary Democrats, including Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), criticized the settlement agreement as unprecedented. The committee is scheduled to hear from outside witnesses on Thursday, including individuals critical of Blanche's past handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files and DOJ pardon protocols.