Republican senator Thom Tillis recently met alongside White House officials to endorse Todd Blanche’s confirmation as U.S. attorney. Critics assert say Tillis, once a strong voice, now wields reduced influence. The Senate saw the departure of an influential member when Lindsey Graham died on July 14. This leaves more vacancies for top posts. The GOP contested the SAVE Act during the week. Backers pressed strongly, but others called the effort lacking. They said the bill lacked a solid plan.