U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) speaks during the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee vote on U.S. President Donald Trump's nomination of Todd Blanche to be U.S. attorney general, on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., U.S., August 4, 2026. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst
The Senate Judiciary Committee voted to advance Todd Blanche's nomination for attorney general.
The Tuesday 12-10 vote moves President Donald Trump's former personal lawyer closer to permanent confirmation, reported Semafor congressional bureau chief Burgess Everett.
The vote followed Blanche's Sunday rescission of the nearly $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization" fund intended to compensate Trump supporters who participated in the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the Capitol. The reversal won over Sens. John Cornyn (R-TX) and Thom Tillis (R-NC), who previously blocked his path.
Trump indicated he could revive the fund if Blanche is not confirmed. However, Blanche's concession left intact an IRS settlement provision shielding Trump, his two eldest sons, and the Trump Organization from audits of past tax returns. The move could potentially save Trump $100 million or more.
A federal judge criticized Blanche's handling of the settlement, finding he "ignored ethical norms, court rules, and legal authority to manipulate the judicial process."
Democrats contend Blanche's protection of Trump disqualifies him from leading the Justice Department.
Republicans, however, aim for full Senate confirmation before the August recess.
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