Blanche Secures GOP Support After Rescinding Controversial Fund
Todd Blanche's nomination as U.S. Attorney General appears to be back on track after he signed an order to formally rescind the Justice Department's planned $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization fund'. The Republican senators who had been holding up his confirmation, John Cornyn of Texas and Thom Tillis of North Carolina, have announced they will now support Blanche's nomination.
The 'anti-weaponization fund' was established by the Justice Department in May to compensate individuals who were unfairly persecuted by the government under the Trump administration. However, payouts from the fund could potentially extend to those accused in connection with January 6th, which had raised bipartisan concerns.
Cornyn and Tillis had previously stated they would not support Blanche's nomination unless he provided written assurance that the fund was being canceled. After a series of 'good faith discussions', Blanche fulfilled this request by signing an order to formally rescind the fund on Monday.
The order, which was posted on X by Blanche, also clarified that no funds had been transferred or claims paid out from the fund. Despite its cancellation, Trump has stated he may revive the fund through a congressional bill.