Trump calls retiring senator a loser over AG nomination

President Donald Trump sharply criticized Senator Thom Tillis on Friday, calling the outgoing Republican lawmaker a "loser" after Tillis stated he would oppose the confirmation of Todd Blanche as Attorney General unless Blanche condemns the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. The president made the remarks to reporters while boarding Air Force One at Joint Base Andrews, en route to an event in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.

Trump said Tillis did not seek reelection because he would not have received the president's support. "He didn't run because I wouldn't support him," Trump said. "And he's just an angry man because he's not going to be a senator any longer." The president added that Tillis was not respected in the Senate and claimed the senator had fought with many people, specifically mentioning Pete Hegseth, whom Trump called "a gem."

In contrast, Trump praised his nominee, calling Blanche "a brilliant guy who everybody likes, everybody respects." Blanche, who is currently serving as Acting Attorney General and was formerly Trump's personal attorney, was formally nominated by the president this week. Trump concluded his remarks by stating, "Tillis is not qualified. He's...