DOJ refuses to put in writing that Trump's $1.8B 'anti-weaponization' fund is dead
Popular Information—The Department of Justice rejected a federal judge's request to officially certify in writing that the Trump administration's proposed $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization' fund has been abandoned, raising alarm that the controversial fund may not actually be off the table. CNBC reported the DOJ refused to make any formal written pledge not to move forward with the fund. Popular Information, an independent newsletter, argued explicitly that the fund is not dead despite reporting suggesting otherwise, warning readers not to assume the commitment has been made. The New Republic highlighted the DOJ's refusal as evidence of the administration's intent to preserve the legal option to revive the fund. Critics say the fund, which would have compensated individuals who claimed government persecution, amounted to a political slush fund without adequate oversight.
- Popular Information — Popular Information argued the Trump $1.776 billion fund is not actually dead despite widespread reporting otherwise.
- Bloomberg — The DOJ rejected a judge's formal request to certify the $1.8 billion fund has been nixed.
- The New Republic — The DOJ's refusal to officially declare the fund dead suggests the administration is keeping its options open.
- CNBC — The DOJ refused to put in writing any pledge not to move forward with the 'anti-weaponization' fund.