Trump asks Senate Majority Leader Thune to end ‘blue slips’ tradition

President Donald Trump on Thursday pressed Senate Majority Leader John Thune to dismantle the Senate’s “blue pants” tradition, arguing that the practice has allowed Democrats to block Republican nominations to the bench and U.S. attorneys.

“If they say no, then it’s OVER for this very qualified Republican candidate. Only a far-left Democrat can be endorsed. It’s shocking that Republicans, under the leadership of Senator Chuck G, are allowing this scam to continue. It’s so unfair to Republicans, and it’s unconstitutional,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.

“I hereby call on Senate Majority Leader John Thune, a fantastic guy, to do something, ideally to end the Blue Slips. Too many GREAT REPUBLICANS are being SENT IN THE PACKAGE. None are approved!!!”

Trump’s remarks come as courts continue to examine the legality of his U.S. attorney appointments.

GRASSLEY CUTS UP PRESSURE FROM TRUMP TO “HAVE THE COURAGE” TO ACCELERATE NOMINATIONS

Senate Majority Leader John Thune holds a copy of a continuing resolution bill as he speaks alongside House Speaker Mike Johnson during a press conference in Statuary Hall of the U.S. Capitol October 3, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)

Alina Habba announced Monday that she would resign as New Jersey’s top federal prosecutor after an appeals court ruled that she held the position illegally.

Lindsey Halligan, special assistant to the president, speaks with a reporter outside the White House, Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2025, in Washington. (Jacquelyn Martin/AP)

Trump named Lindsey Halligan as acting U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, following the resignation of Erik Siebert. In November, a federal judge dismissed indictments from former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James, finding that Halligan was illegally appointed and therefore lacked the authority to bring charges.

GRASSLEY CUTS UP PRESSURE FROM TRUMP TO “HAVE THE COURAGE” TO ACCELERATE NOMINATIONS

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Trump is actually urging the Senate to end the long-standing custom regarding all judicial nominees. Senators from both parties are reluctant to change this practice, fearing losing the ability to block or block nominees they are concerned about.

Fox News’ Chad Pergram contributed to this report.