Red-state senators block Todd Blanche’s AG confirmation after backing Garland

Senators John Cornyn of Texas and Thom Tillis of North Carolina have announced they will not confirm Todd Blanche as permanent Attorney General, despite previously endorsing Merrick Garland’s confirmation in 2021. At the time, both described Garland as a qualified, non-partisan choice for the Department of Justice. Since taking office, Garland oversaw high-profile actions such as indicting President Trump, prosecuting pro-life activists, and investigating traditional Catholics, which conservatives label as politically driven.

Online critics have seized on the apparent inconsistency, with figures like Mike Howell and Mark Davis calling out the senators for “blocking” Blanche after their earlier support for Garland. President Donald Trump also attacked the two senators, claiming their careers are ending because of their stance. The controversy underscores ongoing partisan battles over the direction of the DOJ.