Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) canceled a scheduled meeting on Wednesday evening, July 30th, 2026, to consider the nomination of acting Attorney General Todd Blanche to lead the Justice Department. The cancellation came amid opposition from GOP senators on the panel, notably Senators Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) and John Cornyn (R-Texas).

A spokesperson for Grassley stated that the chairman aims to set President Trump's nominees up for success in committee, not failure. The postponement allows time to secure sufficient support to favorably report Blanche, who is described as highly qualified for the role.

The opposition centers on a dispute regarding whether the administration could revive a previously proposed $1.776 billion fund intended for victims of alleged "weaponization" by the Department of Justice (DOJ). Both Tillis and Cornyn have said their votes depend on the fund being formally and permanently disbanded.

Cornyn told reporters earlier that he had sent a "red line" to the Justice Department but noted that Blanche had not met with him. Later, Cornyn demanded, "Tell them they have one hour and 50 minutes to get me what I asked for," referring to the DOJ. Tillis, who has largely left negotiations to Cornyn, expressed during Blanche’s confirmation hearing, "I want to stick a fork in this turkey of a $1.776 billion fund."

Additionally, Senators Cornyn and Tillis are seeking written assurances from the Department of Justice regarding the Trump-IRS settlement, according to a statement from Grassley’s office.

Sources