Full Breakdown
Thom Tillis Critiques Trump’s Approach to Federal Nominee and Pope
4/16/2026, 5:05:13 AM
Tillis Blocks Warsh's Confirmation Amid Controversy
Senator Thom Tillis has pledged to block the confirmation of Kevin Warsh as the next chair of the Federal Reserve until the Department of Justice (DOJ) concludes its investigation into current chair Jerome Powell. Warsh's confirmation hearing is scheduled for next week, and his approval hinges on Tillis's vote, especially as Democrats remain united against Trump's nominee. Tillis has publicly defended Powell, asserting that he has done nothing wrong and expressing skepticism about the motivations behind the DOJ's investigation, suggesting it may be an attempt to curry favor with the White House.
Tillis stated, “End the probe, he said, ‘and I will vote for Kevin Warsh simultaneously with the conclusion of that statement coming out of the DOJ, and not a day before.’” He emphasized his refusal to support Warsh while the investigation persists, indicating that he does not want to reward what he perceives as "bad behavior."
Criticism of Trump's Actions
In addition to his stance on Warsh, Tillis has expressed confusion over Trump's recent conflict with Pope Leo XIV, particularly following the pope's comments regarding the ongoing war with Iran. Tillis, who identifies as Catholic, criticized Trump’s harsh rhetoric towards the pope, stating, “To say soft on crime or soft on the border, that’s what you say to an opponent in the next election... but not to the pope of the Catholic Church.” He believes that an apology is often warranted in politics, adding, “When you’re wrong, you’re wrong, or if you made a mistake, or maybe it was just a misconception, just get past it. Move on.”
Concerns Over Military Objectives in Iran
Tillis has generally supported Trump's military actions in Iran, having voted against efforts to limit the president's authority in the conflict. However, he has recently voiced concerns regarding the lack of clear strategic objectives from the Trump administration as the conflict approaches the 45-day mark. He remarked, “What’s concerning me now is we’re coming up on the 45-day mark... I’m not quite clear what the strategic objectives are.” He indicated that if the situation does not improve, it may become challenging for him to continue supporting the military engagement beyond the 60-day threshold set by the War Powers Resolution.
Official Statements & Responses
Tillis has reiterated his commitment to holding the Trump administration accountable for its actions, particularly regarding the investigation into Powell and the military engagement in Iran. He has stated that he will not support Warsh's nomination until the DOJ investigation concludes, reflecting his stance on maintaining integrity in governance.
Verbatim Quotes
- “ End the probe, he said, “and I will vote for Kevin Warsh simultaneously with the conclusion of that statement coming out of the DOJ, and not a day before, and not for the remaining …” — Thom Tillis, U.S. Senator
- “To say soft on crime or soft on the border, that’s what you say to an opponent in the next election. Or, you know, maybe a presidential or prime minister candidate in some other country, but not to the pope of the Catholic Church,” — Thom Tillis, U.S. Senator
- “What’s concerning me now is we’re coming up on the 45-day mark. Sixty days is important with respect to the war powers resolution, and I’m not quite clear what the strategic objectives are,” — Thom Tillis, U.S. Senator
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Tillis has expressed his concerns about the military objectives in Iran, there is no consensus on the effectiveness or clarity of the Trump administration's strategy, with differing opinions among lawmakers on both sides of the aisle. Additionally, the status of the DOJ investigation into Powell remains unclear, with no definitive timeline for its conclusion.
