The Senate Judiciary Committee has scheduled a confirmation hearing for Attorney General nominee Todd Blanche on July 15 and 16. Judiciary Chairman Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) confirmed the timeline after meeting with Blanche, stating that the committee received the nominee’s paperwork late last week. Grassley indicated that, barring unexpected opposition, Blanche could advance before the Senate's August recess.
The hearing will span two days, with Blanche expected to testify on the first day, followed by an expert witness panel on the second day. This scheduling follows Blanche's submission of the necessary nomination paperwork, which initiated the committee's 28-day waiting period.
Blanche has been serving as acting attorney general since former Attorney General Pam Bondi's resignation earlier this year. He was formally nominated by President Donald Trump to lead the department permanently earlier this month.
On Tuesday, Blanche met privately with several Republican senators, including those viewed as potential skeptics or swing votes. With Democrats likely to oppose Blanche, Republicans have limited room for defections in the committee. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and John Cornyn (R-TX), both committee members, have not publicly committed to supporting the nomination.
Tillis stated he is still vetting Blanche and plans to meet with him next week. He expressed concerns regarding Blanche’s previously proposed $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund, which critics argued could target political adversaries. Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) reported that Blanche assured her the proposal would not move forward.
Grassley expressed optimism about Blanche’s prospects, noting that he previously cleared the Senate as deputy attorney general. He emphasized that he has not received negative feedback from those who voted for Blanche in that role. Concerns among Democrats regarding Blanche's independence as the nation's top law enforcement official stem from his close relationship with Trump, whom he has represented in various legal matters.
Blanche has faced scrutiny during his tenure at the Justice Department, particularly regarding the anti-weaponization fund and ongoing investigations involving political figures. Grassley released a statement praising Blanche and indicating support for a swift confirmation process, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability in the Department of Justice.