Trump's $1.8B 'Weaponisation' Fund Temporarily Halted by Federal Judges
A $1.8 billion fund established by President Donald Trump to compensate those claiming government 'weaponisation' has been suspended, as reported by two sources knowledgeable about the initiative. This fund emerged from a legal agreement between Trump and the Justice Department, settling a lawsuit in which Trump sought $10 billion from the Internal Revenue Service over alleged mismanagement of his tax documents. The $1.776 billion was earmarked for individuals alleging government mistreatment. The initiative faced immediate legal challenges and political backlash, particularly from Senate Republicans who were outraged that individuals involved in the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack might receive taxpayer money. On Friday, judges in Virginia and Florida issued temporary injunctions on the fund until June 12 for further examination. A Justice Department spokesperson remarked on Monday that the department "disagrees strongly" with this pause but will comply with the court's decision.
Key facts
- Trump's $1.8 billion 'weaponisation' fund is on hold.
- The fund emerged from a legal settlement between Trump and the Justice Department.
- Trump had sued the IRS for $10 billion over alleged mishandling of his tax records.
- The $1.776 billion was meant to pay people who said they had been subject to government abuse.
- The fund sparked concern that January 6, 2021 Capitol attackers could receive payouts.
- Senate Republicans expressed anger over potential payouts to Capitol attackers.
- Federal judges in Virginia and Florida temporarily halted the fund until June 12.
- Justice Department disagrees with the halt but will abide by the court's ruling.
Entities
Institutions
- Justice Department
- Internal Revenue Service
- Senate Republicans
Locations
- United States
- Virginia
- Florida
- Washington, D.C.