WASHINGTON – A significant discussion is unfolding regarding the nomination of Todd Blanche as attorney general, as key Republican senator John Cornyn has raised concerns that may stall the process. Cornyn, a pivotal swing vote, has expressed the need for further assurances from the Justice Department relating to the settlement of former President Donald Trump’s lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
Blanche, who has been serving as acting attorney general since Pam Bondi’s dismissal in April, was set to meet with Cornyn on Wednesday, but the meeting was called off. Cornyn criticized the Justice Department for not adequately addressing his concerns in writing, particularly about a settlement that grants Trump and his family immunity from tax audits.
The Senate Judiciary Committee has a vote scheduled for Thursday to advance Blanche’s nomination to the full Senate. However, this timeline may be jeopardized without a resolution to Cornyn’s concerns. Another Republican senator, Thom Tillis of North Carolina, has aligned himself with Cornyn, indicating that even one dissenting Republican could derail Blanche’s nomination.
Cornyn voiced his frustration, stating, “They know what they need to do but they simply refuse to do it.” His remarks come in the context of a larger issue surrounding Trump’s $10 billion lawsuit against the IRS, which had included a controversial plan to create an “Anti-Weaponization Fund” aimed at compensating individuals who felt wronged by the Justice Department.
In June, amid bipartisan backlash, the Justice Department announced it would not proceed with the “Anti-Weaponization Fund.” However, concerns remain regarding audit immunity agreements that were part of the settlement, with some lawmakers urging for a definitive commitment in writing to ensure the fund is permanently off the table. Trump has expressed ongoing support for the idea, complicating the matter further.
Blanche had previously been hesitant to provide a formal written retraction regarding the fund’s status, though he did indicate during his confirmation hearing earlier this month that the administration would work towards legislation that would prevent the fund’s creation.
Furthermore, Cornyn has sought clarification on the scope of the tax immunity deal, which Blanche has stated protects against existing audits but does not shield Trump from future tax filings.
“We’ve been trying to help them get to a conclusion here and they won’t let us. It’s befuddling to me,” Cornyn remarked, highlighting the ongoing negotiations and the importance of resolving these issues promptly.
A source familiar with the discussions mentioned that the Justice Department has provided a written proposal to Cornyn’s office aimed at addressing his concerns regarding the audit immunity agreement and the fund. This exchange underscores the complexity and sensitivity of the issues at hand as Blanche’s confirmation hangs in the balance.
___
Associated Press reporter Mary Clare Jalonick in Washington contributed to this report.
