Blanche Wins GOP Backing After Rescinding ‘Anti-Weaponization Fund’
The Senate Judiciary Committee's Republican holdouts say they've secured the written assurance they sought and will now support Blanche—even as Trump explores ways to revive the fund.
On July 29, 2026, Republican Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis announced their support for Todd Blanche's confirmation as U.S. Attorney General. The Senators had previously withheld their backing due to Blanche's endorsement of a $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization fund" intended to compensate those the Trump Administration deemed unfairly persecuted.
Blanche addressed this concern on July 31 by formally rescinding the DOJ's plan to establish the fund through an order. The retraction clarified that no funds were allocated, no claims were processed, and no members were appointed. Blanche emphasized that the Justice Department had consistently maintained this position through testimonies and written correspondence.
Both Cornyn and Tillis expressed satisfaction with Blanche's decision, stating their intention to vote in favor of his nomination at the Senate Judiciary Committee's forthcoming hearing. Despite the fund's retraction, Blanche indicated potential avenues for its revival, such as through congressional action, a possibility Trump has hinted at. The Attorney General appointment is expected to be approved by the committee on Tuesday.
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