Story perspectives

Bipartisan Senate Blocks Todd Blanche Nomination Over $1.8 B Fund

8/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

Senators from both parties will vote “no” on Attorney General Todd Blanche’s nomination.
Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) will vote “no” because she cites DOJ politicization, a $1.8 billion fund, as Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) block unless the $1.776 billion fund is rescinded.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) says the 52-seat majority and Senator Mitch McConnell’s (R-KY) absence give confidence to secure votes before an August recess.

History

Historical Context

In 2001 President George W. Bush nominated former Missouri governor John Ashcroft as attorney general, and the Senate confirmed him by a 58-42 vote, reflecting sharp partisan lines. That episode showed how budget and policy disputes can become bargaining chips in DOJ confirmations, a pattern that resurfaced in fights over Alberto Gonzales in 2005 and the current debate over Todd Blanche’s $1.776 billion request.

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Story summary

Senators from both parties will vote “no” on Attorney General Todd Blanche’s nomination.
Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) will vote “no” because she cites DOJ politicization, a $1.8 billion fund, as Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) block unless the $1.776 billion fund is rescinded.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) says the 52-seat majority and Senator Mitch McConnell’s (R-KY) absence give confidence to secure votes before an August recess.

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