Full Breakdown
Senate Push to Confirm Todd Blanche as Attorney General
7/22/2026, 1:45:12 AM
Confirmation Battle Over Todd Blanche
The Trump administration is seeking Senate approval for Todd Blanche, the president’s former personal attorney who is currently serving as acting attorney general. Blanche’s confirmation has stalled, with Republicans warning that his ties to the president could compromise the Justice Department’s independence and advance a controversial “slush fund” settlement that would protect Trump and his family from future IRS audits.
Background: Blanche’s Nomination and the “Slush Fund” Issue
Blanche’s nomination has drawn criticism from within the GOP. Lawmakers have expressed doubt that he would keep the Justice Department insulated from White House influence, especially given his admission during a recent hearing that “I’m his lawyer.” The settlement in question would shield the former president from tax-audit scrutiny, a point that senators say must be addressed before they can support his confirmation.
Senate Negotiations with Tillis and Cornan
Facing a potential “no” vote that could derail the nomination, the White House has opened direct talks with two senior Republican senators whose support is pivotal. Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina, a retiring member who has been an outspoken critic of Trump, told reporters his staff have been in contact with the administration “almost, probably daily.” Senator John Cornyn of Texas, whose 2022 reelection bid was undermined by Trump’s endorsement of primary challengers, confirmed that negotiations are focused on modifying the settlement’s audit-protection provision. He asked, “Well, does he want to get confirmed or not?” and added that “Those are the issues we’re continuing to discuss with the administration to see whether we can get a modification of the settlement agreement.”
Official Statements & Responses
Blanche reiterated his personal connection to the president when pressed, stating plainly that he is Trump’s lawyer.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I know my staff have been in touch, almost, probably daily,” — Sens. Thom Tillis
- “Those are the issues we’re continuing to discuss with the administration to see whether we can get a modification of the settlement agreement,” — John Cornyn
- “Well, does he want to get confirmed or not?” — John Cornyn
