Key Republicans have delayed a Senate committee vote on United States President Donald Trump’s pick to become attorney general, Todd Blanche. The delay, originally set for Thursday, represents a major stumbling block in the nomination of Blanche, who currently leads the Department of Justice (DOJ) in an acting capacity.

The decision came amid concerns from two key Republicans over Blanche’s proximity to Trump and, particularly, a controversial legal settlement in the president’s lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Blanche had served as Trump’s personal criminal defense lawyer before being tapped for the DOJ.

A spokesperson for the committee said late on Wednesday the vote would be postponed “as work continues to secure sufficient support” for Blanche. All Republicans on the committee would need to vote in favor of Blanche to bring his nomination to a full vote in the chamber.

Republican Senators John Cornyn of Texas and Thom Tillis of North Carolina have been vocal in their skepticism. Their concerns have focused on Trump’s settlement with the IRS, which included a provision shielding Trump and his family from future tax investigations and created a $1.8 billion “anti-weaponization fund” for individuals alleging political prosecution.

Cornyn on Wednesday accused the DOJ of “stonewalling” further requests for information, telling reporters “the ball is in Blanche’s court.” Trump suggested Cornyn’s discontent might stem from the president’s endorsement of his primary challenger, which led to Cornyn’s defeat.

At the DOJ, Blanche has overseen many of Trump’s top priorities, including investigations into the president’s political enemies. Under questioning, he maintained he operates independently from the White House, though critics remain skeptical.

Source: www.aljazeera.com