Trump Defends $1.8bn Slush Fund That Delays Todd Blanche 2026

Donald Trump has defended the controversial $1.8bn slush fund that is now delaying Todd Blanche's confirmation as attorney general, calling for the Senate to approve his former personal lawyer immediately. The president's Truth Social post on Friday morning came as Blanche's nomination stalled over demands from two Republican senators for written assurances that the fund will never be activated.

The proposed fund, part of a settlement in Trump's $10bn lawsuit against the IRS over leaked tax returns, would award money with no restrictions to allies of the president and bar the IRS from auditing his returns. Critics, including Democrats and government watchdogs, have labeled it a slush fund, warning it could pay out to January 6 riot defendants. While Blanche later said the fund was dead, Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis remain unconvinced, postponing the committee vote.

Why the Slush Fund Is Holding Up Confirmation

The core issue is trust. Cornyn and Tillis want written assurances that the Department of Justice will never activate the $1.8bn fund, but Blanche has not provided them. This lack of commitment has created a standoff, leaving Blanche's confirmation in limbo and raising questions about the independence of the DOJ under Trump's influence.

Trump's defense frames the fund as compensation for his supporters, whom he calls "victims of government abuse." He insists he gave up his own payments, which he claims would have been substantial. However, the legal and ethical concerns remain, especially given the fund's secretive nature and potential to reward those convicted in the Capitol riot.

Key Players in the Standoff

• Donald Trump – Defends the fund and demands immediate approval for Blanche.
• Todd Blanche – Acting attorney general, nominee for permanent role, but hasn't given written assurances.
• John Cornyn & Thom Tillis – Republican senators blocking the vote without guarantees.
• Democrats & Watchdogs – Oppose the fund as a dangerous precedent.

Comparison: Trump's Fund vs. Traditional DOJ Settlements

What Happens Next for Todd Blanche

Without written assurances, the Senate judiciary committee cannot advance Blanche's nomination. The delay could force Trump to either pressure the senators or withdraw the fund entirely. Blanche's future as attorney general hangs in the balance, and the standoff highlights the tension between presidential loyalty and institutional norms.

For now, the ball is in Blanche's court. If he provides the assurances, the confirmation could proceed quickly. If not, the nomination may collapse, leaving the DOJ without a permanent leader and further entrenching the controversy.

Key Takeaways

• The $1.8bn slush fund is a direct obstacle to Todd Blanche's confirmation.
• Republican senators demand written guarantees that the fund will never be used.
• Trump's defense of the fund may backfire, increasing scrutiny on his influence over the DOJ.
• The IRS audit ban raises serious ethical and legal red flags.

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