Todd Blanche’s Bid to Join Exclusive Washington Costco Hits Resistance

April 29 , 2026

WASHINGTON — Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has encountered unexpected opposition in his effort to gain membership at a highly selective Costco location in Washington, D.C., according to individuals familiar with the matter.

The warehouse club in question, situated in a restricted-access federal district, is known less for its bulk goods and more for its unusually stringent membership policies. Unlike standard Costco locations, which are open to the general public for an annual fee, this site reportedly serves a narrow group of government officials, contractors, and approved affiliates.

Blanche is said to have applied for membership earlier this year. Sources indicate that his application triggered internal review procedures typically reserved for applicants with high public profiles.

While Costco does not publicly disclose criteria for membership decisions at this location, several individuals familiar with the process described a “discretionary vetting system” that considers factors such as professional affiliations, security clearance compatibility, and potential reputational impact.

Opposition to Blanche’s application appears to stem from a combination of bureaucratic caution and differing views among decision-makers about whether his presence would align with the site’s intended purpose. Some officials reportedly raised concerns about increased media attention, while others questioned whether his professional role meets the location’s informal eligibility standards.

A spokesperson for Costco declined to comment on specific applications but reiterated that “membership policies may vary at certain locations due to operational or security considerations.”

Blanche has not publicly addressed the matter. A person close to him described the situation as “a routine application that has taken on outsized attention,” adding that he remains focused on his legal work.

It remains unclear whether Blanche’s application will ultimately be approved or denied. Individuals familiar with the review process say a final decision could come in the coming weeks.

Olivia Asher