Tillis expressed strong opposition to any possibility that the compensation fund could be reinstated later.
"The only logical conclusion I can draw from this setback is that, in fact, there is somebody who wants to enable [the fund] at the right time," Tillis said.
He described such potential plans as unacceptable.
Meanwhile, Illinois Senator Dick Durbin indicated to USA TODAY that other Republican colleagues likely share similar concerns but have refrained from speaking out publicly.
Trump's plan to renominate Blanche after the departure of Cornyn and Tillis faces potential political hurdles if Democrats secure a Senate majority in the upcoming November midterm elections.
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Nevertheless, federal regulations allow an acting official to remain as interim law enforcement chief for up to 210 days while the nomination process proceeds.
