Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche testifies before Senate panel on DOJ budget — 5/19/2026

Summary

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche testifies before a Senate subcommittee on the DOJ's FY2027 budget request. The hearing focuses on the $1.8 billion anti-weaponization settlement fund, staffing shortages at the Bureau of Prisons, and proposed cuts to grant programs. Senators from both parties express sharp disagreements over the fund's legality and scope.

• Blanche presents a $41.2 billion DOJ budget request, a 13% increase over FY26.
• The $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund is heavily criticized by Democrats as a slush fund for Trump allies.
• Blanche defends the fund's structure, citing a similar Obama-era Native American settlement.
• Staffing crises at the Bureau of Prisons and immigration courts are discussed.
• Proposed cuts to Violence Against Women Act grants and other community programs draw bipartisan concern.
• Senators question the reduction in funding for the DOJ Inspector General's office.