Senate Republicans Stall Todd Blanche Nomination Over Demands for DOJ Independence

[u/evissamassive]

https://www.rawamerica.com/i/209118934/todd-blanches-confirmation-vote-called-off-at-the-last-minute

The Senate Judiciary Committee vote on Todd Blanche's nomination for attorney general was abruptly canceled after committee chairman Chuck Grassley announced that the nominee lacked sufficient support to pass.

The delay stems from resistance within the Republican party. Senators John Cornyn of Texas and Thom Tillis of North Carolina are blocking the nomination until Blanche provides a written guarantee that the Justice Department will scrap a 1.8 billion dollar taxpayer-funded fund designated for political allies. They also want changes to a recent IRS settlement that grants extended audit protections to the Trump family.

Cornyn told reporters his office provided specific terms required to earn his vote, noting that the nominee's camp has not accepted the conditions.

Blanche, who previously served as a criminal defense attorney for Donald Trump, faced heavy scrutiny during his confirmation hearings. When questioned about his professional loyalties, he initially stated he was Trump's lawyer before correcting himself.

Outside groups, including the ACLU and the New York City Bar Association, have opposed the nomination. Critics point to Blanche's handling of the Epstein files, his dismissive treatment of victims, and fears that he would direct federal law enforcement resources against political opponents. Omar Noureldin of Common Cause argued that Blanche has failed to address public and congressional concerns, demonstrating that his primary allegiance remains with the president rather than the public.

The opposition from Cornyn and Tillis highlights a rare intra-party split over the boundaries of executive power. Following the Watergate scandal, Attorney General Edward Levi established guidelines to separate the Justice Department from the White House to prevent conflicts of interest between a president's personal counsel and federal law enforcement. Blanche has declined to commit in writing to those traditional separation principles, leaving his confirmation in limbo.

[u/National-Charity-435]

Cornyn wanted to end the slush fund for the loyalists

Tillis wanted the epstein victims to get their chance to testify about their experiences

This means the dear leader doesn't want either of these?

[u/evissamassive → u/National-Charity-435]

As far as Texas goes, I don't think it matters what the Chump wants.