At issue was Blanche, as the acting leader of the Justice Department, putting in writing that the $1.8 billion fund to compensate President Trump's allies no longer exists.
The senator said he has invited Smith to appear in front of the panel on Sept. 22.
The letter comes after Grassley asked Verizon in 2023 to search for all requests or orders made by the Justice Department or any federal law enforcement agency between January 2016 – October 2023 related to Senate devices and Crossfire Hurricane.
"The New York Times seems to be very obsessed with how I’ve obtained government records. Maybe because they haven’t been able to, or maybe they haven’t even tried to get these records?" he added.
'Like clockwork, just before a hearing or vote, we get another breathless accusation that one of President Trump’s nominees needs to be investigated,' Grassley stated.
'The fact that he’s been able to bring some transparency to government is a tribute to his independence,' the senator said.
President Donald Trump nominated Blanche for the role last week. He has been serving in the position in an acting capacity since former Attorney General Pam Bondi resigned earlier this year. Blanche previously served as Bondi's deputy.
Grassley's press release comes on the heels of various attempts by Dems to pack the Supreme Court.
Grassley said the Senate committee is already working to process the nomination and expressed support for Blanche, stating he has worked with him well for over a year.
The suits allege the agents were wrongfully terminated based solely on their assignment to former special counsel Jack Smith’s team.