Thune Casts Doubt on Todd Blanche AG Bid as $1.776 Billion Fund Fuels GOP Unease
Updated
Updated · CNN · Jun 4
Thune Casts Doubt on Todd Blanche AG Bid as $1.776 Billion Fund Fuels GOP Unease
3 articles · Updated · CNN · Jun 4
Summary
John Thune said Todd Blanche’s path to Senate confirmation as attorney general is “hard to say,” signaling Trump’s newly announced nominee lacks assured Republican support.
Blanche’s prospects are being complicated by his role in the DOJ’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files, a proposed $1.776 billion “anti-weaponization” fund, and scrutiny of his stance on Jan. 6.
Thom Tillis said he would oppose Blanche if he equivocates on condemning the 2021 Capitol riot, and argued killing the fund would improve his chances in a confirmation hearing.
John Cornyn also said he is undecided and wants answers on whether Blanche, Trump’s former personal lawyer and current acting attorney general, can act independently from the president.
Blanche now heads to the Senate Judiciary Committee, where even clearing the panel is uncertain despite Trump’s push for a quick confirmation.