WASHINGTON (AP) — Todd Blanche faced a delay in his nomination to become attorney general on Wednesday. Lawmakers postponed a planned committee vote due to Republican demands for more clarity on President Donald Trump’s lawsuit settlement against the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
The Senate Judiciary Committee had scheduled a vote for Thursday to decide whether to advance Blanche’s nomination. However, resistance from two Republican senators raised doubts about his confirmation. A committee spokesperson stated the vote would be delayed as efforts continue to gather enough support.
The delay followed intense negotiations between the Justice Department and Republican Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis. The dispute centers on the settlement of Trump’s $10 billion lawsuit against the IRS. The deal included dropping tax claims against Trump and a now-disbanded plan for a $1.776 billion “Anti-Weaponization Fund.” This fund aimed to compensate individuals claiming harm by the Justice Department. Although the Justice Department announced in June the fund would not proceed, officials maintain the audit immunity agreement remains.
Senators Cornyn and Tillis demanded written assurances to confirm that the “Anti-Weaponization Fund” will not be revived. They also seek clarity on the tax immunity deal’s scope. Cornyn wants the settlement to apply only to existing audits, ensuring Trump remains subject to future tax examinations.
Earlier on Wednesday, Cornyn criticized the Justice Department for “stonewalling” and stated, “the ball is in Blanche’s court.” Blanche did not respond to questions from reporters after meeting with senators on Capitol Hill.
The Justice Department provided new language to Senators Cornyn and Tillis on Wednesday evening, trying to meet their requirements. Following the postponed vote, the department expressed readiness to address any concerns with senators.
Trump minimized worries about Blanche’s confirmation, praising his former attorney as “outstanding.” He speculated that Cornyn might be displeased due to a lack of endorsement in Cornyn’s primary defeat in Texas. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, endorsed by Trump, won the Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate.
Concerns remain regarding the potential revival of the “Anti-Weaponization Fund” without a written commitment from the Trump administration. Blanche previously resisted formal retraction requests, but assured senators that the administration would support legislation to prohibit the fund’s creation.
Trump’s lawsuit over leaked tax returns remains under intense scrutiny. A judge criticized Trump for self-dealing through the lawsuit and questioned Blanche’s role in the settlement, due to his past representation of Trump. Blanche disputed the judge’s comments.
___Associated Press reporters Seung Min Kim and Mary Clare Jalonick in Washington contributed to this report.