Trump's $1.8 B anti‑weaponization fund sparks GOP revolt

The Trump administration announced a $1.8 billion fund intended to compensate individuals who claim they were politically persecuted by the government. Critics in the Republican Senate and Democratic leaders have denounced the program as a taxpayer‑funded slush‑pot for the president’s allies.

President Trump and senior officials defended the fund, saying it is not unusual and citing a 2010 $760 million Keepseagle settlement as a precedent. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche acknowledged the new fund is “unusual,” noting key differences such as the lack of a class‑action lawsuit, undefined eligibility criteria, and the president’s power to appoint and fire the overseeing board.

Legal scholars highlighted that the fund taps the Treasury’s Judgment Fund without clear judicial oversight, raising concerns that it effectively allows Trump to “sue himself” and direct money to supporters. A New York voter expressed frustration, stating, “It’s our taxpayer money. It should be going to the citizens for what they need.”