Trump 'anti-weaponisation' fund indefinitely blocked as judge wants guarantee it's abandoned

June 12, 2026

A federal judge has extended a block on President Trump's proposed $1. 8 billion fund intended to compensate alleged victims of government legal persecution, demanding written confirmation from administration officials that the program will not move forward. The controversial fund was originally established to settle Trump's lawsuit against the IRS regarding leaked tax returns, but it sparked bipartisan opposition due to concerns that January 6 Capitol riot participants, including those who attacked police, might receive payments.

Who is affected

President Donald Trump and his administration
Attorney General Todd Blanche and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent
Judge Leonie Brinkema
Andrew Floyd, a former federal prosecutor who was allegedly fired
January 6, 2021 Capitol riot participants, including those convicted of assaulting police officers
Democrats and some Republican lawmakers
Potential claimants who considered themselves victims of "lawfare" and "weaponisation"

What action is being taken

Judge Brinkema is continuing to block the fund
The judge is requiring the Trump administration to provide written confirmation via sworn statement within one week that the fund will not proceed
Andrew Floyd is continuing litigation against the fund

Why it matters

This case represents a significant check on executive power and raises constitutional concerns about using government funds to compensate individuals based on claims of politically motivated prosecution. The controversy is particularly important because it could potentially reward January 6 Capitol riot participants, including those convicted of assaulting law enforcement officers, which would undermine judicial accountability and jury verdicts. The requirement for sworn statements rather than accepting oral testimony demonstrates judicial oversight ensuring government commitments are legally binding and enforceable.

What's next

The Trump administration has one week to confirm via sworn statement from Attorney General Todd Blanche and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent that the fund will not proceed
Andrew Floyd will continue litigation to ensure the fund does not proceed

Read full article from source: BBC