US Justice Department blocks Trump tax audits with new agreement

The US Department of Justice issued an addendum to a settlement agreement that permanently bars the Internal Revenue Service from conducting tax audits of former President Donald Trump, his family members and affiliated companies. The addendum, signed by acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, also establishes a $1.776 trillion “Anti‑Weaponization Fund” to compensate alleged victims of politically motivated government actions.

Lawmakers and legal experts have condemned the move as an unprecedented exemption from standard tax‑compliance procedures, raising concerns about constitutional violations and conflicts of interest. Critics argue the fund lacks transparency and could be used to favor political allies. The DOJ posted the document online without a press briefing, prompting immediate backlash from Democratic senators and other observers.