Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche appeared before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday for a confirmation hearing to become the permanent head of the Justice Department. Blanche, who previously served as the department's second-ranking official and as personal counsel to President Trump, has led the agency in an acting capacity since April following the departure of Pam Bondi.
The hearing addressed Blanche's oversight of several recent department actions, including the proposed creation of a $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization' fund. The fund was part of a settlement to resolve a lawsuit filed by President Trump against the IRS regarding the leak of his tax returns. While Blanche recently announced the fund would not proceed, the settlement continues to shield the president and his businesses from certain past tax audits. A federal judge recently criticized the settlement, describing it as an attempt to use taxpayer funds for grievances not covered by law.
Lawmakers also questioned Blanche regarding the department's recent investigations and indictments, including charges against former FBI Director James Comey and the Southern Poverty Law Center. Additionally, the department has opened an inquiry related to E. Jean Carroll, who previously won civil judgments against the president. Democrats have signaled unified opposition to the nomination, while some Republicans, including Senators Thom Tillis and John Cornyn, have expressed concerns regarding the IRS settlement. Wins or losses in the committee will determine if the nomination moves to the full Senate.