Senate Deal Clears Path for Attorney General Confirmation After Trump Fund Scrapped
Washington, Monday, 3 August 2026.
On August 3, 2026, key Republican senators agreed to advance Todd Blanche’s attorney general nomination after the Justice Department officially scrapped a controversial $1.8 billion fund intended for presidential allies.
Breakthrough Agreement Reached
On Monday, August 3, 2026, key Republican Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis formally announced their support for Todd Blanche’s nomination for U.S. Attorney General [1][2]. This endorsement clears a critical legislative hurdle following a period of uncertainty where confirmation proceedings had stalled over policy disputes [7]. The agreement ensures Blanche has the necessary votes to advance to a full Senate vote, signaling a shift toward solidifying leadership at the Department of Justice [1][3]. This development updates previous reporting where senators withheld support demanding proof that a controversial fund granting Donald Trump IRS audit immunity had been dismantled [7].
Terms of the Settlement
Central to the agreement is the Department of Justice’s formal order to permanently terminate the $1.8 billion “anti-weaponization” fund [1][4]. Additionally, the Department issued a binding written document clarifying that the scope of the audit settlement is limited exclusively to the plaintiffs, including the President, and the IRS [3][5]. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche confirmed that the May 18, 2026 order establishing the fund is rescinded and shall have no force or effect [4][5]. Senators Cornyn and Tillis stated they required a written document addressing concerns on the IRS audit agreement and legally ending the fund [1][5].
Legislative Timeline and Vote
The Senate Judiciary Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, to vote on advancing Blanche’s nomination to the full Senate [1][3]. Following a successful committee vote, Blanche requires approval from the full Senate where Republicans currently hold a 53-seat majority [3]. However, the effective majority is reduced to 52 votes due to the absence of Senator Mitch McConnell since June 2026 [3]. Senators Cornyn and Tillis indicated they look forward to voting to advance the nomination out of the committee soon [5][6].
Context of Controversy
The controversial fund was originally established via a settlement between Mr. Trump and the IRS regarding tax return leaks and a $10 billion lawsuit [3][5]. Bipartisan opposition arose due to concerns the fund could compensate individuals convicted of assaulting law enforcement during the January 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol riot [1][4]. In June 2026, Todd Blanche claimed the Justice Department would not proceed with the fund, but concerns persisted regarding potential tax immunity provisions [1]. On August 2, 2026, Blanche formally rescinded the fund and clarified that tax immunity is limited to the Trump family and previously filed tax returns [1][5].