Trump allies pursue legal route for Jan. 6 compensation after DOJ fund scrapped

The U.S. Department of Justice has halted a proposed $1.8 billion compensation fund intended for supporters of former President Donald Trump who claim they were victimized by a “weaponized” federal response to the Jan. 6, 2021 Capitol riot. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche and senior DOJ officials have told Congress and courts that the fund will not move forward.

Despite the official stance, Trump allies and Republican lawmakers are exploring alternative legal avenues to secure payouts. They are focusing on the Federal Tort Claims Act, a 1946 statute that allows individuals to file claims against the federal government for alleged wrongful acts. Several allies have already filed lawsuits under this act, seeking millions of dollars each. A federal judge has warned the DOJ not to revive the fund while litigation continues, and a court order blocks any further action on the “Anti‑Weaponization Fund” until at least June 12.

Lawmakers such as Sen. Lindsey Graham argue that the existing legal framework should suffice for claims, while DOJ officials acknowledge they are “on it” but have not disclosed a concrete plan. The effort reflects ongoing political pressure to compensate Jan. 6 defendants and other Trump supporters despite the fund’s termination.