AG Nominee Todd Blanche Promises DOJ Prioritization of Abortion Restrictions
TL/DR –
Todd Blanche is nominated for U.S. Attorney General and recently committed in writing to rescind a controversial settlement agreement related to a $10 billion lawsuit by Donald Trump against the IRS, after facing opposition from Republican Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis. The settlement would have established a $1.7 billion “anti-weaponization” fund and protected the Trump family from tax audits, yet Blanche’s commitment to rescind the agreement may not be legally binding. Blanche’s nomination may be at risk due to opposition from Senators Susan Collins, Bill Cassidy, and Lisa Murkowski, and his recent promise to prioritize restrictions on medication abortion has stirred further controversy.
Blanche Navigates Controversy amid AG Nomination
Todd Blanche’s journey to become the US Attorney General continues amidst contention. After a heated Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, Blanche won over Republican legislators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis, despite initial reservations regarding President Trump’s “anti-weaponization fund.” Following further private discussions, Blanche pledged in writing to retract the Justice Department’s settlement agreement in Trump’s IRS lawsuit, which had proposed a $1.7 billion fund.
This compromise might appear significant, but the reality suggests otherwise. Trump and his business entities would still be shielded from past IRS audits, potentially exceeding $100 million. The anti-weaponization fund, which would distribute billions to Trump supporters, remains intact.
Despite these issues, Cornyn and Tillis expressed their satisfaction with Blanche’s commitment. However, they face criticism for this position. For instance, Rep. Jamie Raskin and Rep. Grace Meng underscored the emptiness of Blanche’s promise as the underlying lawsuit is still active and President Trump has not agreed to the DOJ’s settlement changes.
Fallout and Criticism
Despite the controversy surrounding Blanche’s nomination, he continues to face an uphill battle. Key senators such as Susan Collins, Bill Cassidy, and Lisa Murkowski are undecided about their vote on his nomination. Murkowski, in particular, stated she was “still deliberating” her decision.
Blanche faced further criticism following his commitment to restrict medication abortion if he becomes AG. Critics have taken him to task for his comments during a call with anti-abortion group Intercessors for America, where he detailed his plans on the issue despite providing scant specifics on his proposed practices and policies.
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