Trump Criticizes Senators for Blocking Acting Attorney General’s Nomination

President Donald Trump expressed strong criticism towards Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis for not moving forward with Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche’s nomination to permanently lead the Department of Justice (DOJ).

In a post on Truth Social, Trump made it clear he was unhappy with both Cornyn (R-Texas) and Tillis (R-N.C.), suggesting he might withdraw Blanche’s nomination entirely unless they leave their positions.

“Todd Blanche is a STAR, and everyone knows it! He has the potential to go down as one of the Greatest Attorney Generals of All Time. However, John Cornyn, of Texas, and Thom Tillis, of North Carolina, both of whom I refused to Endorse, and whose political careers have been ended by my action, are refusing to vote for this Great Nominee, who will remain, in any event, as Acting,” Trump stated.

He pointed out their history of approving other nominees, even mentioning Joe Biden’s attorney general pick, Merrick Garland.

“Remember, both Cornyn and Tillis voted for Merrick Garland, and others, too numerous to mention. I have no objection to temporarily withdrawing Todd’s name, if they do not do the right thing, and putting him back after Cornyn and Tillis are out of office,” the president added.

The reluctance from the senators appears to stem from a now-defunct proposal for an “anti-weaponization” fund aimed at aiding Americans who felt targeted by the government, allowing claims without political affiliation prerequisites. This nearly $1.8 billion fund was linked to resolving Trump’s $10 billion lawsuit against the IRS.

However, the plan encountered significant resistance. Blanche later confirmed to the DOJ leadership that the fund would be discontinued following a thorough review.

Cornyn and Tillis are reportedly seeking a written assurance from Blanche that this fund won’t be reinstated.

Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) has since canceled a meeting intended for discussing Blanche’s nomination due to the concerns raised by the senators.

“Chairman Grassley works to set President Trump’s nominees up for success in committee, not failure. Senators Cornyn and Tillis want written assurances from the Department of Justice regarding the Trump-IRS settlement,” a spokesperson for Grassley commented.

“Tomorrow’s markup is postponed as work continues to secure sufficient support in committee to favorably report Attorney General-nominee Todd Blanche, who is highly qualified for the job,” the spokesperson concluded.

Despite holding a majority, Republicans cannot afford to lose any votes in advancing Blanche’s nomination.