Republicans clear Todd Blanche for top US Justice Department role

Republicans on Tuesday approved Todd Blanche's nomination to serve as the United States attorney general, clearing the final procedural hurdle before a full Senate vote. The Senate Judiciary Committee passed the nomination in a 12-10 vote along party lines, marking a critical step toward confirming Blanche, who previously served as Donald Trump’s personal attorney. The decision came after weeks of internal Republican debate over Blanche’s close ties to Trump and his involvement in a controversial IRS settlement. The approval followed delays caused by two prominent Republicans, Senators John Cornyn of Texas and Thom Tillis of North Carolina, who initially expressed reservations about Blanche’s role in the $1.8 billion “anti-weaponisation” fund agreement between Trump and the IRS. Critics viewed the arrangement as a means to reward Trump allies using public funds while shielding the former president and his family from potential IRS scrutiny. A federal judge had previously alleged that Blanche engaged in double-dealing during the negotiations, representing both Trump’s personal interests and the government agency he was tasked with defending. Blanche claimed the fund had been invalidated, and over the weekend, he released signed documents formally rescinding the agreement and clarifying the scope of individuals protected from future IRS investigations. While legal experts remain skeptical about the enforceability of these documents, Cornyn and Tillis ultimately decided to back Blanche’s nomination. On Monday, both senators indicated they would support the nominee despite earlier doubts. Republican Senator Charles Grassley, who backed Blanche’s nomination, criticized the prolonged uncertainty surrounding the fund, calling it a “crime” that the Department of Justice had taken so long to offer stronger assurances. He stated the issue had finally been resolved “once and for all.” Meanwhile, Democratic members of the committee, who all opposed Blanche’s nomination, argued that Republicans were downplaying concerns about his loyalty to Trump. Senator Chris Coons of Delaware emphasized the need for an independent and transparent Department of Justice, stating he believed Blanche lacked the commitment to achieve such goals. Illinois Senator Dick Durbin accused Blanche of aiding and abetting what he called the most corrupt administration in U.S. history. Concerns also centered around Blanche’s actions as acting attorney general, including his decision to indict former FBI Director James Comey for allegedly threatening Trump through a cryptic social media post containing the numbers “86 47.” The phrase “86” originates from the restaurant industry, signifying the removal of an item from a menu, while “47” has been interpreted as a reference to Trump, the 47th president of the United States. Legal analysts have questioned the validity of the charges, noting that the message likely constitutes protected political expression rather than a criminal act. Tillis, who supported Blanche’s nomination, acknowledged broader frustrations about the perceived politicization of the federal justice system. He expressed hope that Blanche would work to address these issues, though he stopped short of endorsing the nominee outright. With the Senate Judiciary Committee’s approval secured, the path is now set for a full Senate vote on Blanche’s nomination in the coming days. The outcome will determine whether he assumes the nation’s highest law enforcement position.