Trump May Temporarily Drop Blanche AG Bid Amid GOP Feud 2026

Donald Trump said he may temporarily withdraw Todd Blanche's nomination for attorney general, keeping him as acting AG until two Republican senators leave office. This move escalates an intra-party fight over a $1.8 billion fund and tax immunity agreement.

Why Blanche's Nomination Faces Opposition

Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis have blocked Blanche's confirmation, demanding written assurance from the Justice Department that it will not proceed with a controversial $1.8 billion compensation fund for alleged weaponization victims. They also seek clarity on tax immunity provisions for the president and his family.

Blanche publicly stated the fund is not moving forward, but Cornyn and Tillis want it in writing—a request Blanche has refused. The Senate Judiciary Committee canceled Thursday's vote due to insufficient support.

The Political Standoff

Trump blasted the two senators, vowing to keep Blanche as acting attorney general—a role he has held since April. Federal law permits the deputy AG to serve indefinitely until a successor is confirmed, allowing Trump to bypass Senate approval temporarily.

Both Cornyn and Tillis are leaving Congress in January, which would remove their objections. Trump's strategy is to wait them out, but the fight highlights deep divisions within the GOP over the DOJ's direction.

Comparison: Confirmation vs. Acting Role

Key Takeaways

• Trump may temporarily withdraw Blanche's nomination to avoid Senate defeat.
• Blanche would remain as acting AG, leveraging federal law for indefinite service.
• Cornyn and Tillis demand written guarantees on DOJ agreements.
• The conflict stems from a $1.8 billion fund and tax immunity for Trump.
• Both senators exit Congress in January, potentially resolving the impasse.

Implications for the Justice Department

This standoff could set a precedent for using acting officials to bypass Senate confirmation. It also raises questions about the DOJ's independence and the scope of presidential influence over legal proceedings.

Legal experts note that while acting AGs can exercise full authority, their tenure is precarious and subject to court challenges. The situation remains fluid as negotiations continue behind closed doors.

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