Trump Administration Establishes $1.8 Billion 'Anti-Weaponization Fund' Amid Legal Settlement
The U.S. Department of Justice has created a $1.8 billion fund to compensate individuals alleging political targeting, following a settlement with President Trump over a lawsuit against the IRS.
The U.S. Department of Justice has announced the creation of a $1.8 billion 'Anti-Weaponization Fund' intended to compensate individuals who claim they were unfairly targeted by federal agencies. This initiative follows a settlement in which President Donald Trump agreed to drop a $10 billion lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) concerning the leak of his tax returns.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stated that the fund aims to address grievances from those alleging misuse of governmental power. The fund will be managed by a five-member commission appointed by the Attorney General, with decisions on compensation not subject to judicial review.
Critics have raised concerns about the fund's potential use. Some Democrats argue it could serve as a 'slush fund' to financially support individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riot, whom President Trump previously pardoned. Additionally, legal experts question the unprecedented nature of establishing such a substantial compensation fund through a legal settlement, suggesting it may exceed executive authority.
The fund is set to operate until December 1, 2028, after which it will cease accepting new claims. Any remaining funds are to be returned to the federal government.
