Black Lawmakers Blast Trump DOJ Fund as ‘Reparations for White Supremacists’

May 22, 2026

Black congressional leaders are strongly criticizing the Trump administration's $1. 776 billion "Anti-Weaponization Fund," which they argue could provide taxpayer money to January 6th Capitol attackers and extremist organizations. The Justice Department fund was established as part of a settlement after Trump agreed to drop a $10 billion lawsuit against the IRS regarding his tax information disclosure.

Who is affected

January 6th Capitol rioters and convicted insurrectionists
Members of extremist groups including Proud Boys and Oath Keepers
Black Americans seeking justice for racial discrimination, wrongful convictions, and police violence
American taxpayers funding the $1.776 billion program
Working families facing rising costs and reduced federal support
Individuals claiming victimization by federal "weaponization" or political persecution

What action is being taken

Rep. Jamie Raskin has introduced legislation to block the fund entirely
Black lawmakers are intensifying their public attacks and criticism of the fund
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer are warning against the fund's use
President Donald Trump is working to protect those involved in the Capitol attack

Why it matters

This fund represents a significant redirection of taxpayer money that critics argue rewards political allies and participants in the January 6th Capitol attack rather than addressing legitimate needs of working families or providing justice for historical wrongs against Black Americans. The lack of restrictions on who can receive payments creates potential for political favoritism and abuse of public funds. The controversy highlights stark contrasts in how the government addresses claims of political persecution versus long-standing demands for racial justice and reparations.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer