Republican holdouts end opposition to Blanche nomination

Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche has rescinded an order establishing the "anti-weaponization" fund, a move that paves the way for his confirmation as attorney general. The fund was criticized by critics who saw it as a slush fund for Trump's supporters, and its establishment had been held up by Republican senators John Cornyn of Texas and Thom Tillis of North Carolina, who wanted written assurances that it would not be pursued. After the order was rescinded, the two lawmakers said they were pleased with the move and looked forward to advancing Blanche's nomination out of the Senate Judiciary Committee. The committee is expected to vote on Tuesday, and if approved, Blanche's nomination will advance to a vote before the full Senate, where Republicans hold 53 seats. The "anti-weaponization" fund was established by the Trump administration in May 18, 2026, and its purpose was to provide taxpayer-funded payments to allies of Trump, potentially including individuals involved in the January 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol.