Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche appeared before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, facing intense scrutiny as he seeks confirmation for his permanent role.

Blanche, who previously served as former President Donald Trump's defense attorney, is navigating a confirmation process complicated by several controversies that have emerged during his tenure leading the Justice Department. These issues are expected to be central to the committee's questioning.

Key among the concerns are actions related to the Justice Department's now-defunct Anti-Weaponization Fund. This fund, established after Trump's attorneys sued the IRS, drew bipartisan condemnation. Republicans, in particular, have voiced significant concerns about a settlement that could have benefited Trump allies who claimed to be targets of the previous administration. Further complicating matters, Blanche signed an order granting Trump and his family immunity from IRS investigations into their past tax returns.

The implications of these controversies are significant for Blanche's confirmation. He likely requires the unanimous support of all Republican members of the Judiciary Committee, as Democrats are expected to oppose his nomination. The recent death of Senator Lindsey Graham, who was anticipated to be a strong supporter, further tightens the political calculus for advancing his nomination.

Recent developments have intensified the pressure. On Monday, U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams issued a sharp rebuke of the Justice Department and Trump's legal team, describing their actions in the IRS settlement as a misuse of the court. Judge Williams, who had previously overseen Trump's IRS lawsuit, referred Trump's attorneys for potential sanctions and alerted the State Bar of New York regarding Blanche's conduct, suggesting he may have provided misleading information.

Despite Blanche's assertion that the administration would drop the Anti-Weaponization Fund, the department has not yet formally committed to this in writing. Additionally, the DOJ has not rescinded the immunity order for Trump and his family regarding IRS investigations, leaving these matters unresolved and subject to further questioning.

Blanche's path to permanent AG status was initially expected to be smoother, especially after his prior confirmation to a number two position with unanimous Republican backing. However, his transition to the acting AG role in April and subsequent nomination by Trump in June have placed him at the center of these high-profile disputes.

The Senate Judiciary Committee's hearing is a critical juncture, where Blanche must address these allegations and satisfy the concerns of committee members to secure his permanent position as Attorney General.