NewsKPBS Public MediaAugust 3, 2026San Diego
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche terminates $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization fund' and limits tax audit immunity
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche issued a formal order terminating the $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization fund' intended to compensate political allies and clarified that tax audit immunity for the President and his family applies only to past claims. This action follows negotiations with Republican senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis to secure support for Blanche's upcoming Senate confirmation vote.
Read the full story at KPBS Public MediaWhy It Matters
The termination of this fund removes a $1.8 billion expenditure and settles a point of contention regarding the use of federal resources for political allies, while the audit clarification limits the scope of presidential tax protections to existing claims.
Key Facts
- Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche officially rescinded the May 18, 2026 order that created the $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund.
- The Justice Department confirmed that no funds were transferred, no members were appointed, and no claims were paid from the fund.
- The order clarifies that tax audit immunity for the President and his family applies only retroactively to claims open at the time of the settlement.
- Future tax filings of the President remain subject to examination.
- The action was taken following negotiations with Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis to secure votes for Blanche's confirmation.
- The Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation vote for Blanche is scheduled for Tuesday.
- President Trump previously expressed support for the fund and suggested it could provide reimbursement for individuals charged in the Jan. 6, 2021 Capitol attack.
- The Justice Department previously refused a judge's request to file a declaration under penalty of perjury regarding the fund's status, calling it unnecessary.