U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) laughs inside an elevator before attending a weekly policy lunch on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., U.S., May 19, 2026. REUTERS/Tom Brenner
Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) signaled he will condition his support for Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche's confirmation on guarantees that Blanche aggressively restricts access to the abortion pill mifepristone.
Blanche already faces a treacherous confirmation path with Democrats and Republicans angered over his backing of President Donald Trump's failed $1.8 billion "Anti-Weaponization Fund," Politico reported.
Hawley stated he wants assurance Blanche will settle mifepristone-related lawsuits and clear the way for potential restrictions on the medication, adding it would shock him if Blanche refused to comply.
"He's been very, very good on pro-life issues, so I'm sure he'll be good on this," said Hawley.
The Missouri senator indicated his vote could flip if Blanche provides an unsatisfactory timeline.
The Trump Justice Department has fractured over abortion policy, refusing to defend the FDA's mifepristone telehealth policy, despite pro-life expectations.
A single Republican vote against Blanche on the Senate Judiciary Committee could block his nomination from reaching the Senate floor entirely.
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