Trump administration is scrapping the $1.8bn ‘anti-weaponisation fund’

The Trump administration has abandoned its nearly $1.8 billion "weaponization" fund, a significant reversal following intense political backlash and legal challenges. Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche announced the decision, stating, "We are not moving forward with the fund. Period." This abrupt turnabout comes just two weeks after the Justice Department defended the fund as a necessary measure to compensate for alleged law enforcement "weaponization" during the Biden administration. The fund, established as part of a legal settlement resolving a $10 billion lawsuit against the IRS over the handling of Trump's tax records, was intended to pay individuals who claimed government abuse. However, it was quickly paused by a judge and drew criticism from both Democrats and Republicans. A key point of contention was the administration's refusal to commit to barring individuals who participated in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot from receiving funds. The decision to scrap the fund appears to be a strategic move to overcome an impasse with Republican senators over a $72 billion bill for ICE and Border Patrol operations, with congressional leaders indicating the bill's passage was contingent on killing the fund. Despite the fund's cancellation, the Justice Department's agreement with former President Trump to prevent future audits of his or his family's tax records will remain in effect.

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We are not moving forward with the fund. Period.