US judge extends block on Trump’s $1.8bn ‘anti-weaponisation’ fund

A federal judge in Virginia has indefinitely blocked the Trump administration's $1.8 billion "anti-weaponisation" fund. This fund, intended to compensate individuals alleging government "weaponisation," was a product of a settlement between Trump and the Justice Department over a lawsuit against the IRS. The Justice Department had previously walked back the controversial plan due to backlash from lawmakers and lawsuits. Judge Leonie Brinkema issued a preliminary injunction, extending a temporary halt previously placed on the fund. The fund's creation and the criteria for payouts remained undetermined, with no money disbursed or claims accepted. The plan faced opposition, particularly regarding potential compensation for January 6th Capitol rioters.

A federal judge has extended a block on the Trump administration's $1.8 billion "Anti-Weaponization Fund." U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema ruled the fund will remain blocked until further notice, rejecting the government's argument that lawsuits challenging it are now moot. This decision comes after acting Attorney General Todd Blanche informed Congress the administration was scrapping the fund due to bipartisan backlash. However, plaintiffs' attorneys and Judge Brinkema remain unsatisfied with assurances that the fund will not be revived, especially as President Trump has continued to express support for it. The judge has given parties a week to negotiate a sworn declaration from the administration confirming the fund's cancellation. The fund was created to resolve Trump's lawsuit against the IRS over leaked tax returns.

A US federal judge has extended a block on the Trump administration's $1.8 billion "Anti-Weaponization Fund." The fund was created to resolve a lawsuit by Donald Trump against the IRS concerning the leak of his tax returns. Despite the acting US attorney general informing Congress that the government is scrapping the fund due to bipartisan backlash, plaintiffs' attorneys remain unconvinced. US District Judge Leonie Brinkema ruled the fund will remain blocked until further notice, requiring the government to negotiate a sworn declaration that the administration will not revive it. The judge previously issued a temporary block that was set to expire. Critics argue the fund illegally diverts taxpayer money to compensate Trump's allies.