Acting Attorney General Blanche Ends Trump’s Anti-Weaponization Fund

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has officially ordered the termination of President Donald Trump’s $1.8 billion ‘anti-weaponization fund.’ This fund aimed to compensate Trump’s political allies. The decision follows negotiations with Republican Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis, who had been blocking Blanche’s confirmation as attorney general.

Negotiation Details

Senator Cornyn confirmed the arrangement that precedes a crucial confirmation vote for Blanche’s appointment by the Senate Judiciary Committee. Senator Tillis has yet to provide comments. Previously, at a June hearing, Blanche assured that the fund wouldn’t proceed, addressing bipartisan concerns over the potential inclusion of violent rioters from the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack.

Blanche and his team engaged in detailed discussions with committee members to address any concerns. These discussions led to the official rescinding of previous orders regarding the fund.

Official DOJ Statement

The Justice Department, alongside Blanche’s order, issued a statement retracting a prior order dated May 18, 2026. Since the lawsuit against the IRS was resolved, no members were appointed, no funds were transferred, and no claims were paid. This ensures the fund’s complete cessation.

The order also clarifies the scope of settlement provisions granting immunity from tax audits to Trump and his family. It specifies that this immunity applies only to claims open at the time of the settlement, not future tax filings.

Political Reactions

Senators Cornyn and Tillis, who had reservations, blocked Blanche’s nomination. They required further assurances from the administration. Despite willingness from the Justice Department, the White House had been unyielding, complicating the confirmation of Blanche, a former personal attorney for Trump.

Blanche, who had previously served as Trump’s defense lawyer, assumed the deputy role at the Justice Department last year and rose to acting attorney general after Pam Bondi’s dismissal. He has been proactive in supporting the Trump administration’s priorities despite not seeking a permanent role.

Trump’s Position

During negotiations, Trump repeatedly supported the fund and considered advancing it if Blanche wasn’t confirmed. He expressed support for those who faced charges during the Capitol events, advocating the fund as reimbursement for their suffering.

On the legal front, Trump’s attorneys filed an appeal against a court ruling criticizing the settlement with the IRS as self-dealing. The same ruling called for potential disciplinary action against one of Trump’s attorneys and questioned Blanche’s involvement.

Blanche opposed the judge’s suggestions of misconduct. The Justice Department, which had declared the fund inactive, found additional court requirements unnecessary.