Senator Tillis Withholds Vote on Attorney General Nominee
Senator Thom Tillis will not vote to confirm Todd Blanche as Attorney General until Blanche meets with Jeffrey Epstein's abuse survivors. A single Republican 'no' vote could prevent Blanche's nomination from advancing to a full Senate vote.
Senator Thom Tillis announced on Thursday that he will not vote to confirm Todd Blanche as Attorney General until Blanche meets with survivors of Jeffrey Epstein's abuse. This decision is significant because even one Republican 'no' vote on the Senate Judiciary Committee could prevent Blanche's nomination from moving forward to a confirmation vote before the full Senate.
Tillis stated that Blanche had expressed willingness to meet with the Epstein victims and their counsel. Tillis expects this meeting to occur before he is willing to vote on the nomination, saying 'I'm trying to get to yes, but this is a very important part of getting to yes.'
The meeting is expected to take place over the next two weeks, and Tillis has not made a final decision on his vote. Blanche's nomination is currently pending before the Senate Judiciary Committee.
Go Deeper
Who is Todd Blanche?
Todd Blanche is the acting Attorney General who has been nominated for the permanent role. His nomination is currently pending before the Senate Judiciary Committee.
What is the significance of the meeting with Epstein survivors?
The meeting is significant because it shows Blanche's willingness to engage with victims of abuse and address their concerns. Senator Tillis considers this meeting a crucial step before he can support Blanche's nomination.
What happens if Blanche's nomination does not advance to a full Senate vote?
If Blanche's nomination does not advance to a full Senate vote, it could delay or potentially block his confirmation as Attorney General. This would require the President to reconsider the nomination or choose a different candidate.
How many Republican votes are needed to advance the nomination?
The nomination needs to be approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee before it can be sent to the full Senate for a vote. If all Republican members of the committee vote in favor, the nomination will advance, but a single 'no' vote from a Republican could prevent it from moving forward.
What is the current status of Blanche's nomination?
Blanche's nomination is currently pending before the Senate Judiciary Committee. The committee will hold a vote on the nomination, and if it is approved, it will be sent to the full Senate for a confirmation vote.
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