Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche rescinded a $1.8 billion [1] anti-weaponization fund Sunday night.
The decision removes a primary obstacle to Blanche's confirmation as the permanent Attorney General. By terminating the fund, Blanche has satisfied key Republican lawmakers who were blocking his nomination.
Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and John Cornyn (R-TX) had previously indicated they would not support Blanche's appointment unless the fund was eliminated. The fund was originally established by President Donald Trump. The rescission order was issued Sunday, Aug. 3, 2026, following negotiations between the Acting Attorney General and the two senators [2].
This financial measure, totaling $1.8 billion [1], was designed to combat the perceived weaponization of government agencies. Its removal marks a significant shift in the administration's approach to the issue as it seeks to finalize the leadership of the Department of Justice.
Blanche now moves toward a confirmation vote with the support of Tillis and Cornyn. The deal ensures that the legislative process for the AG nomination can proceed without the specific budgetary dispute that had stalled the appointment [3].
“Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche rescinded a $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund on Sunday night.”
This agreement demonstrates the leverage held by individual senators during the confirmation process, even within the same party. By forcing the rescission of a multi-billion dollar fund, Senators Tillis and Cornyn have effectively altered the administration's fiscal priorities in exchange for their political support of the Attorney General nominee.
