Acting AG Blanche Rescinds $1.8B Fund to Advance Confirmation
Todd Blanche eliminated a controversial $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund that had stalled his attorney general nomination. Republican senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis now support moving forward with his confirmation vote.
Tuesday, August 4, 2026
Acting AG Makes Move to Unlock Stalled Confirmation
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has rescinded a $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund in a strategic move to advance his Senate confirmation. The action immediately yielded results, with key Republican senators signaling their readiness to support his nomination.
Senate Blockade Lifted
Blanche's nomination had faced obstacles in Senate committee, with several Republicans citing concerns about the fund's purpose and scope. Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis, both influential voices in the confirmation process, announced they now look forward to voting for Blanche following the fund's elimination. Their support removes a significant hurdle in his path to confirmation as the nation's top law enforcement official.
Background on Disputed Fund
The $1.8 billion anti-weaponization initiative had become a focal point of contention during Blanche's confirmation process. Republicans expressed concerns about the fund's structure and objectives, viewing it as problematic. By rescinding the program, Blanche addressed a primary source of opposition to his nomination.
Next Steps in Confirmation Process
With Cornyn and Tillis declaring their support, Blanche's confirmation appears to have cleared a major procedural barrier. The acting attorney general's willingness to eliminate the contested fund demonstrates a pragmatic approach to securing the votes necessary for confirmation. The Senate committee is expected to move forward with the nomination process following this development.
Blanche currently serves as Acting Attorney General, a position he assumed recently. His formal confirmation would establish him permanently in the role, making the attorney general position one of the most powerful in the federal government.