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Trump defends DOJ weaponization fund and attacks Cornyn, further imperiling Blanche nomination
CNN • • nation
Key Points:
- President Donald Trump urged immediate Senate approval of acting Attorney General Todd Blanche as his permanent appointee, defending a controversial $1.8 billion “anti-weaponization fund” linked to Blanche’s stalled nomination.
- Trump criticized Republican Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis for withholding support, suggesting Cornyn’s opposition is personal due to Trump endorsing Cornyn’s primary opponent, Ken Paxton, in Texas.
- Blanche and the Justice Department have declared the controversial fund “dead” and abandoned, but Cornyn demands written assurances that it will not be revived before supporting Blanche’s confirmation.
- Trump maintained the fund was intended to compensate individuals harmed by the Biden administration and denied it would have personally benefited him, emphasizing its fairness and necessity.
- Cornyn rejected the notion that Trump’s endorsement influenced his stance, insisting that a Senate-confirmed attorney general is needed and that written, enforceable commitments regarding the fund are essential for his support.
