A federal judge in Virginia has indefinitely blocked the Trump administration’s proposed “anti-weaponization” fund, a nearly $1.8 billion initiative intended to compensate individuals claiming to be victims of politically motivated prosecutions. The decision came on Friday (June 12) as the lawsuit against the fund continues.
U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema issued a preliminary injunction preventing the creation of the fund, following concerns that it excludes victims of alleged political targeting by the Trump administration. The Department of Justice (DOJ) has been ordered to provide a sworn statement within a week confirming that the fund will not proceed.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche previously stated in a House hearing that the fund was being abandoned, but refused to provide a written commitment. Despite this, President Donald Trump expressed support for the fund during an interview, calling it a “great idea” and indicating his desire to revive it.
The fund’s establishment stems from a settlement of a lawsuit Trump filed against the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) over leaked tax returns. Critics, including the legal advocacy group Democracy Forward, have labeled the fund a “slush fund” for Trump’s allies. The group filed a lawsuit to block the fund, arguing that it lacks congressional authorization and transparency.
The fund has faced bipartisan criticism, with concerns that it could compensate individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riot. The DOJ has yet to establish the five-member board required to oversee the fund’s distribution, and no payouts have been made.
Judge Brinkema’s order halts any further action on the fund until legal motions are resolved. Meanwhile, U.S. District Judge Richard Leon in Washington has warned the DOJ not to mislead the court about the fund’s status.
The ongoing legal battle highlights the contentious nature of the fund and its potential implications for political accountability and the use of public funds.
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