WASHINGTON (AP) – Todd Blanche’s nomination for attorney general faced a delay as senators canceled a committee vote planned for Thursday. Key Republican senators expressed concerns about a settlement involving President Donald Trump and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
The Senate Judiciary Committee halted the vote due to objections from two Republican members. Their resistance could impact Blanche’s confirmation. A committee spokesperson confirmed the postponement, stating more support was needed.
Negotiations ensued between the Justice Department and Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis. They focused on a settlement of Trump’s $10 billion lawsuit against the IRS. The contentious deal aimed to prevent tax audits on Trump and his family. Additionally, a proposed $1.776 billion fund, intended as compensation for those feeling wronged by the Justice Department, was canceled amid bipartisan disapproval.
Despite the fund’s cancellation, the audit immunity remains in question. Cornyn and Tillis requested written assurance that the fund is defunct and sought clarity on the scope of the immunity. Cornyn wants the immunity limited to existing audits, ensuring future tax filings can be examined.
Cornyn, having recently lost a primary race in Texas, accused the Justice Department of hindering resolution efforts. He remarked, “We’re trying to help them conclude, yet they resist. It’s confusing.” Blanche did not respond to questions as he left meetings with senators.
In response, the Justice Department sent new proposals to satisfy the senators’ concerns. A statement from the department conveyed a willingness to collaborate with senators to resolve issues.
Trump downplayed Blanche’s confirmation hurdles. Referring to Blanche as “outstanding,” Trump suggested Cornyn’s actions might stem from a lack of endorsement. Trump had endorsed Ken Paxton, who defeated Cornyn in the primary.
Some lawmakers questioned whether the compensation fund might resurface without a formal assurance from Trump’s administration. Although Blanche resisted issuing a retraction, he indicated at his confirmation hearing that the administration could support legislation to prevent the fund’s creation.
The settlement from Trump’s lawsuit over leaked tax returns has attracted scrutiny in Congress and courts. A judge previously criticized the settlement, noting Trump’s self-serving intentions. The judge also expressed concerns over Blanche’s involvement, but Blanche disagreed with the judge’s perspective.
Contributors include Associated Press reporters Seung Min Kim and Mary Clare Jalonick in Washington.