Blanche formally withdraws Trump fund plan, ahead of AG confirmation vote

August 3, 2026

Acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche has officially withdrawn President Trump's controversial $1. 8 billion "anti-weaponization" fund through a formal written order, removing the final obstacle to his Senate confirmation. The proposed fund, which originated from a settlement of Trump's lawsuit against the IRS over leaked tax returns, sparked bipartisan concern because it could have compensated individuals prosecuted for the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot, including those who assaulted police officers.

Who is affected

Todd Blanche (acting Attorney General seeking permanent confirmation)
President Donald Trump and his family members (Donald Jr. and Eric Trump)
The Trump Organization
Republican Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis (who blocked confirmation)
People prosecuted over the January 6, 2021 US Capitol riot (who would have potentially received compensation)
US Senate judiciary committee members
Democrats and some Republicans concerned about the fund

What action is being taken

Todd Blanche is formally withdrawing Trump's fund plan through a signed written order
Blanche is meeting with committee members and senators to address concerns
The US Senate judiciary committee has a meeting scheduled for Tuesday that could include a vote on Blanche's nomination

Why it matters

This matters because it resolves a significant political standoff that prevented the confirmation of America's top law enforcement official on a permanent basis. The controversy highlighted concerns about potential misuse of government funds to compensate individuals convicted of crimes during the Capitol riot, including assaults on police officers, and raised ethical questions about shielding the president and his family from tax audits. The episode also demonstrates that some Republican senators are willing to exercise independence from Trump's agenda when they believe lines are being crossed, even at the risk of the president's threats.

What's next

The US Senate judiciary committee has a meeting scheduled for Tuesday, which could include a vote on Blanche's nomination for attorney general.

Read full article from source: BBC