Story perspectives

Epstein Survivors Call to Block Blanche Amid Trump Favoritism Allegations

7/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Epstein survivors displayed billboards urging senators to block Todd Blanche’s confirmation over his handling of investigation files.
Senator John Cornyn asked Blanche about the $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund shielding Trump and allies from tax probes, noting settlement stays on the Department of Justice (DOJ) website.
Dick Durbin accused Blanche of favoring Trump over constitutional duties, noting Blanche said he has recused himself from DOJ actions in cases against President Donald Trump.

History

Historical Context

In October 1998 the House opened a broad impeachment inquiry after Ken Starr’s report linked President Bill Clinton to perjury and obstruction of justice. The Senate trial began on Jan 7 1999, presided by Chief Justice William Rehnquist, and on Feb 12 1999 voted 45-55 and 50-50, short of the 67 votes needed for conviction—the first presidential trial since Andrew Johnson in 1868.

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Story summary

Epstein survivors displayed billboards urging senators to block Todd Blanche’s confirmation over his handling of investigation files.
Senator John Cornyn asked Blanche about the $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund shielding Trump and allies from tax probes, noting settlement stays on the Department of Justice (DOJ) website.
Dick Durbin accused Blanche of favoring Trump over constitutional duties, noting Blanche said he has recused himself from DOJ actions in cases against President Donald Trump.

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