US Senate defeats Democratic amendment to block $1.8 billion Trump fund

Senators voted 50‑49 to reject a Democratic amendment that sought to force a debate on a proposed $1.8 billion fund for Donald Trump’s political allies. The amendment, introduced by Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer, aimed to return the legislation to committee and bar the creation of the fund, which the Justice Department had already announced would not proceed.

Three Republican senators—Susan Collins, Jon Husted and Dan Sullivan—joined Democrats in supporting the amendment, but the Republican majority argued that the discussion should remain focused on a separate $70 billion immigration‑border security package. Republicans also cited concerns that the fund would serve as a parallel cash box for Trump allies.

The fund was originally intended to compensate individuals who claimed political persecution during the Biden administration, a premise critics said would benefit Trump supporters. While the amendment failed, the Department of Justice confirmed the fund will not move forward, and a separate fiscal protection agreement for Trump, his family and businesses remains in place.