Full Breakdown
Sen. Thom Tillis Sets Conditions for Next Attorney General Nominee
4/4/2026, 1:54:23 AM
Tillis' Stance on Jan. 6 and Attorney General Nominees
Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) has declared that he will not support any nominee for attorney general who makes excuses for the January 6 Capitol riot. This statement follows President Donald Trump's dismissal of Attorney General Pam Bondi, who is temporarily replaced by Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche. Tillis emphasized his position during an appearance on CNN's *The Source with Kaitlan Collins*, stating, “For me, the threshold for somebody following Pam Bondi ends the moment I hear they said one thing that excused the events of January the 6th.” He reiterated that he hopes any potential successor is aware of his firm stance on the matter.
Background on Recent Developments
Tillis' comments come in the context of a politically charged environment, where he previously supported Bondi's confirmation but expressed disapproval of Trump's pardons for over 1,500 individuals involved in the January 6 events. His influence as a key member of the Senate Judiciary Committee positions him as a significant player in the confirmation process for any new attorney general nominee. The Republican majority in the Senate, holding a 53-47 seat advantage, means that if Democrats unite against a Trump nominee, only three GOP defections can be tolerated.
Potential Candidates for Attorney General
While Todd Blanche is currently serving as the acting attorney general, speculation surrounds who Trump may nominate next. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin has emerged as a favored candidate, alongside other names such as Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, Missouri Senator Eric Schmitt, and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. However, Tillis may oppose Paxton due to his prior involvement in the January 6 rally, despite Paxton's condemnation of the violence that ensued.
Criticism and Opposition
Tillis has faced criticism for his previous support of Bondi, particularly regarding her handling of the January 6 aftermath. He has also been vocal about his disapproval of Trump's actions on that day, stating that “what the president did sucked.” This dual criticism of both the rioters and Trump himself highlights the complex dynamics within the Republican Party regarding accountability for the events of January 6.
Official Statements & Responses
Tillis has made it clear that his support for any attorney general nominee hinges on their stance regarding the January 6 events. He stated, “I won’t support any nominee who thought that any element of Jan. 6 was excused,” reinforcing his commitment to holding nominees accountable for their views on the Capitol riot.
What's Next
As the search for a new attorney general continues, the political landscape remains uncertain. The upcoming confirmation battle will likely hinge on Tillis' position and the broader Republican response to Trump's potential nominees. The Senate Judiciary Committee's approval will be crucial, and the dynamics of party unity will play a significant role in shaping the future of the Department of Justice.
