Blanche Stares Down Confirmation Hurdle: Lingering G.O.P. Doubts

Key Points:

• Senator Thom Tillis, a North Carolina Republican and moderate on the Senate Judiciary Committee, expressed concerns about Todd Blanche’s nomination as permanent attorney general, stating he would oppose Blanche if he appeared too lenient on the January 6 Capitol rioters.
• Despite initial reservations, Tillis indicated a “positive predisposition” toward Blanche after a meeting, even though Blanche had approved a $1.8 billion fund potentially accessible to the Capitol rioters.
• Blanche, who became acting attorney general after Pam Bondi's dismissal in April, faces a critical confirmation vote where a single Republican 'no' could deadlock the Senate Judiciary Committee and block his appointment.
• Republicans on the committee hold significant leverage to demand concessions from Blanche ahead of his confirmation hearing, making their decision a pivotal factor in the process.
• The outcome of Blanche’s confirmation hearing is uncertain, with Republican senators' use of their leverage seen as a key variable in the high-stakes proceedings.