Blanche's nomination for AG on hold over fate of DOJ's "anti-weaponization fund"

Todd Blanche's confirmation process to become attorney general has hit a roadblock, with Republican Sen. John Cornyn of Texas leveraging his vote to demand a formal commitment to dismantle the Justice Department's "anti-weaponization fund." The Senate Judiciary Committee postponed a scheduled vote on Blanche's nomination, which was set for Thursday.

Cornyn, a pivotal member of the committee, stated he is "not prepared to vote yes" without a written agreement. He is also seeking modifications to the Justice Department's settlement with President Trump, specifically concerning tax audit immunity for the president and his family, and the scope of federal agencies bound by the agreement. The settlement also addressed the nearly $1.8 billion fund intended to compensate individuals claiming political persecution.

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I'm not prepared to vote yes

A Justice Department official indicated that a "written proposal" was provided to Cornyn's staff on Tuesday, aiming to address his concerns. However, Cornyn described the proposal as "not responsive" to some of his demands. The department later transmitted a new response to Cornyn and Tillis, which a source familiar with the matter said "addresses their concerns." The "anti-weaponization" fund has faced significant opposition from lawmakers across the political spectrum since its introduction.

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All I want them to do is to confirm what he said in his sworn testimony before the Judiciary Committee, with regard not only to the weaponization fund, but also who is protected from future audits and what agencies of the federal government are bound by the release. It's pretty simple, and we've actually sent them a redline strikeout.