A federal judge has temporarily stopped the Trump administration from proceeding with a proposed $1.776 billion fund. This fund was meant for Trump allies who claim they were victims of government misuse. U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema in Alexandria, Virginia, halted its formation and potential payouts for at least two weeks.
The fund’s legality is under question as it aims to settle Trump’s lawsuit against the IRS over his leaked tax returns. The Justice Department asserts the fund’s legality, citing precedents from Obama’s administration. Yet, Judge Brinkema has ordered a hearing on June 12 to consider extending the halt.
The fund has faced backlash, including from Republicans. Some fear it might compensate people involved in the January 6 Capitol riot. The fund’s five-member commission, which sets payout criteria, is not yet formed, so no claims or payouts have happened.
The legal advocacy group Democracy Forward seeks to prevent the fund’s implementation. Their lawsuit claims a lack of legal basis and accountability. “The unlawfulness that has imbued the Anti-Weaponization Fund from its inception requires that it be wholly dismantled,” their lawsuit states.
“President Trump and his allies have long accused Democrats of using the government and the legal system as political weapons,” said the plaintiffs’ lawyers. They argue Trump’s administration has similarly targeted individuals and groups for political retaliation.
Other lawsuits in Washington challenge the fund as well, with one calling it “a jaw-dropping act of presidential corruption.” Two police officers involved in defending the Capitol have also sued, concerned about potential payouts to rioters.
The Virginia lawsuit’s plaintiffs include former Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Floyd, who believes his termination resulted from his prosecution of Capitol riot cases. Additionally, California State University Channel Islands professor Jonathan Caravello, acquitted of an assault charge, is another plaintiff. He was accused of throwing a tear gas canister during a protest.
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