Key facts
- The Trump administration has officially terminated its $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization' fund.
- The fund was intended to compensate individuals alleging wrongful investigation or prosecution.
- A federal judge issued a temporary order blocking the fund.
- The Justice Department confirmed the fund's defunct status in court filings.
- Bipartisan backlash and concerns about potential misuse contributed to the fund's cancellation.
- Critics worried the fund could benefit January 6th Capitol attack participants.
- Senate Democrats introduced legislation, the "Drain the Slush Fund Act," to block the fund.
- Senate Republicans were divided on the fund's elimination.
- The fund originated from a settlement in Donald Trump's lawsuit against the IRS.
- A further review of the fund was scheduled until June 12.
The Trump administration has officially abandoned its proposed $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization' fund, a move confirmed by Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche and in court filings by the Department of Justice. This fund was intended to compensate individuals who claimed wrongful investigation or prosecution by the government. The decision to terminate the fund followed substantial bipartisan backlash and concerns about its potential misuse, particularly regarding individuals involved in the January 6th Capitol attack. A federal judge had previously issued a temporary order blocking the fund, which the Justice Department stated it would comply with. The fund originated from a settlement in Donald Trump's lawsuit against the IRS.
Senate Democrats introduced the "Drain the Slush Fund Act" to permanently block the 'anti-weaponization' fund. Meanwhile, Senate Republicans were divided on the issue. Some voted against an amendment to permanently eliminate the fund during consideration of a $70 billion immigration enforcement package, highlighting internal party divisions. Others, like Senate Majority Leader John Thune, urged the White House to shut down the fund as a condition for passing budget reconciliation packages. The fund's existence had also complicated legislative efforts, including stalled immigration bill negotiations.
The fund faced criticism from lawmakers who worried it could benefit January 6th Capitol attack participants seeking legal costs. The Justice Department's halt on work for the fund was also attributed to a judge's ruling and Republican opposition. A further review of the fund was scheduled until June 12. The administration's decision to terminate the fund means it will not continue, with court filings confirming its defunct status.