Todd Blanche’s nomination for US Attorney General was delayed on Wednesday, July 30th, 2026, after the Senate Judiciary Committee postponed a planned vote. The delay followed demands from Republican Senators John Cornyn of Texas and Thom Tillis of North Carolina for more assurances regarding the settlement of former President Donald Trump’s $10 billion (€8.7 billion) lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

The nomination, advanced by Trump shortly after Pam Bondi’s departure, faced resistance from these key Republicans who could block Blanche’s confirmation. A committee spokesperson stated the vote would be postponed “as work continues to secure sufficient support.”

Central to the dispute is a controversial settlement that included dropping tax claims against Trump and a now-canceled $1.78 billion (€1.55 billion) “Anti-Weaponisation Fund” intended to compensate individuals who felt wronged by the Justice Department. Although the fund was scrapped amid bipartisan outrage, officials confirmed that the audit immunity agreement protecting Trump and some family members remains in place.

Cornyn, who recently lost the Republican primary in Texas, accused the US Justice Department of “stonewalling” and said, “the ball is in Blanche’s court.” The Justice Department reportedly sent new language to Cornyn and Tillis on Wednesday evening in an effort to address their concerns.

Following the postponement, the US Department of Justice stated it remains ready to work productively with Senators Cornyn and Tillis to advance Blanche’s confirmation.

Sources