Blanche rescinds Trump’s ‘anti-weaponization’ fund, removing hurdle from attorney general nominee’s confirmation

Blanche Rescinds Trump’s Anti-Weaponization Fund for AG Confirmation

Goldlaner.com – Todd Blanche, President Trump’s attorney general nominee, officially withdrew a $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund on Sunday. The decision removes a key obstacle that had stalled his Senate confirmation. Blanche rescinds Trump s anti weaponization fund after Senate Republicans threatened to block his nomination unless the issue was resolved. This move significantly strengthens his prospects for approval.

Understanding the Fund’s Purpose

The fund originated from a settlement between Trump and the Internal Revenue Service. It was created to compensate people who felt unfairly targeted by federal authorities. The program covered individuals connected to the January 6, 2021, Capitol events. Although Blanche had previously stated the fund was no longer active, the commitment lacked formal written documentation.

This absence of written confirmation became a major point of contention during the confirmation hearings. Senate members wanted clear assurance that the fund would not be revived.

Senate Opposition Resolved

Senator John Cornyn of Texas and Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina led the opposition to Blanche’s nomination. Both senators serve on the Judiciary Committee and raised concerns about the fund’s future.

My team and I have met with committee members and Senators over the past several weeks and addressed any concerns or outstanding questions. We have enjoyed good faith discussions, and as a result issue the following order and update with regard to the May IRS settlement.

Blanche shared this statement on X, explaining the decision to withdraw the fund. The formal order rescinded the attorney general’s May 18, 2026, directive that established the anti-weaponization fund. The directive would no longer carry legal force.

Immunity Provisions Clarified

The Sunday order also addressed an addendum granting immunity to Trump and his family from certain tax investigations. Senator Cornyn requested clarification that this immunity applied only to past investigations. The agreement confirmed the scope remained limited to the plaintiffs and the IRS.

Sen. Cornyn has reached an agreement with the Department of Justice, which will be issuing a formal order permanently terminating the anti-weaponization fund and making clear in a binding written document that the scope of the audit settlement is limited to only the plaintiffs, including the President, and the IRS.

Natalie Yezbick, Cornyn’s spokesperson, confirmed the successful negotiation. The written agreement permanently ended the fund while clarifying the settlement’s boundaries.

What Happens Next

The Senate Judiciary Committee will vote on Blanche’s nomination on Tuesday. If confirmed, he could assume office before the five-week Senate recess begins. Trump had previously threatened to temporarily withdraw the nomination, planning to renominate Blanche after Cornyn and Tillis left the Senate next year.

The president characterized both senators as displeased because he had not endorsed their candidacies. Cornyn lost a primary this spring to Trump-supported Ken Paxton, while Tillis chose not to seek reelection last year.

A lot of people like it. … If they don’t approve Todd, I put it back on the table.

Trump reiterated this position on Air Force One, emphasizing that the fund represented reimbursement for supporters who had endured what he described as suffering. Tillis responded that while she considered Blanche qualified, she would not support his confirmation due to the reversal on the fund issue.

FAQ: Blanche Rescinds Trump’s Anti-Weaponization Fund

Why did Blanche rescind the anti-weaponization fund? Blanche withdrew the fund to address concerns raised by Senate Republicans, particularly Senators Cornyn and Tillis, who threatened to block his confirmation.

What is the anti-weaponization fund worth? The fund is valued at $1.8 billion and was established through a settlement between Trump and the IRS.

When will the Senate vote on Blanche’s nomination? The Senate Judiciary Committee is scheduled to vote on Tuesday, with Blanche potentially taking office before the five-week recess.

What happens to the immunity provision for Trump? The immunity for Trump and his family from certain tax investigations remains in place, but is now limited to past investigations against the president and parties named in the IRS lawsuit.