The Trump administration has created a $1.776 billion "Anti-Weaponization Fund" to compensate individuals alleging political targeting by the government. The fund, established through a settlement involving President Trump, his sons, and the Trump Organization, shields payout decisions from judicial review and public scrutiny.
How It Works
The fund, managed by the Treasury Department's Judgment Fund, will be administered by a five-member commission handpicked by Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. Decisions on payouts cannot be appealed or challenged in court, and the fund's expenditures on staff, travel, and facilities are uncapped.
"It's bad policy, but it's Congress's fault" for leaving a "huge loophole," said Paul Figley, a former Justice Department official.
Eligibility and Controversy
Almost anyone claiming "weaponization" or "lawfare" can apply, including individuals convicted of assaulting Capitol Police. The fund has already faced legal challenges, with two Capitol Police officers suing to dissolve it, citing concerns it could benefit those involved in the January 6 insurrection.
Critics argue the fund lacks oversight and sets a precedent for future administrations to spend large sums without Congressional approval, as seen with past Judgment Fund payouts.