Trump’s DOJ ‘quietly assuring allies’ to expect slush fund payouts
Trump s DOJ quietly assuring allies – Despite the Department of Justice’s public claims that a nearly $1.8 billion compensation fund for Donald Trump’s allies is no longer in motion, insiders suggest a different narrative is unfolding behind the scenes. According to reports from The Atlantic, administration officials are reportedly informing Trump’s allies that they can anticipate financial support from the government once the political and legal challenges surrounding the fund subside.
The fund, initially proposed to provide multi-million dollar payments to individuals linked to the former president, has been a focal point of recent legal disputes. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanchett affirmed this stance during a congressional hearing, stating the initiative was “not moving forward.” A government lawyer echoed this sentiment in court, asserting the same to a federal judge on Wednesday.
However, the situation appears more complex. Judicial observers indicate that while the DOJ has taken a firm position, internal discussions may be exploring ways to keep the fund operational. “Officials are examining whether parts of the fund can be revived while considering other options to ensure loyalists receive compensation,” The Atlantic reported. This suggests a strategic flexibility within the administration, even as they publicly insist the program is on hold.
Legal Challenges and Judicial Warnings
Washington, D.C. District Judge Richard Leon has issued a stern warning to the DOJ, cautioning that the Trump administration could face legal repercussions if the fund is reactivated. “Don’t play possum with this court,” Leon told lawyers in a recent hearing, emphasizing the need for transparency. His comments underscore a growing concern that the agency’s actions might contradict their public statements.
Leon’s earlier ruling, which blocked the fund’s operations, has created a temporary pause. The order prevents the administration from taking further steps to implement the fund, including distributing funds or processing claims. This legal barrier is set to expire on June 12 unless extended by the courts. Yet, the DOJ has not entirely dismissed the possibility of reviving the initiative, as its filings have been cautious in stating the fund will “not” continue.
Meanwhile, the government is leveraging an alternative financial mechanism. The Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) allows the use of the permanent Judgment Fund to settle claims against the federal government. This fund, designed to simplify the process of compensating individuals for injuries or losses, has already been employed to address lawsuits filed by Trump’s supporters and allies. The administration’s use of this fund highlights a potential pathway to continue supporting Trump’s allies without fully reinstating the slush fund.
January 6 and the Path to Compensation
Recent lawsuits filed by January 6 defendants who were pardoned by Trump further illustrate the ongoing legal landscape. These individuals, who clashed with law enforcement during the Capitol riot, are pursuing claims under the FTCA for damages incurred during the event. Their cases have reignited debates about the DOJ’s role in compensating those accused of government overreach.
Sen. Lindsey Graham, a vocal supporter of Trump, has publicly endorsed the idea of using the fund to reimburse alleged victims of “government weaponization.” On X, he stated, “Alleged victims of government weaponization should still be able to collect checks if they can prove their claim through the Federal Tort Claims Act.” Graham’s remarks reflect the political pressure to ensure Trump’s allies receive financial relief, even as legal hurdles persist.
Assistant Attorney General Stanley Woodward, in response to Graham’s assertion, confirmed the DOJ’s commitment to addressing such claims. “We’re on it,” he said, highlighting the agency’s readiness to navigate the legal process. Woodward also noted during a press conference that the Justice Department has the authority to settle any claim brought against the United States, further indicating the administration’s intent to keep the compensation process alive.
Trump himself has consistently praised the fund, calling it a “beautiful thing” and expressing his desire to “pay them the kind of money they deserve.” During an interview with NBC’s Kristen Welker on Meet the Press, he emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating, “People have committed suicide because a bunch of thugs went after them. … So me, personally, I think the weaponization fund is a great idea, and so do many other Republicans. You have to get it approved. If they get it approved, that’s great. If they don’t, I’d be disappointed.”
The DOJ’s public stance versus internal discussions reveals a strategic divide. While the department insists the fund is stagnant, officials are reportedly working to adapt it to current circumstances. This duality raises questions about the extent of the administration’s commitment to the program and its willingness to navigate legal constraints to support Trump’s allies.
As the legal deadline approaches, the situation remains fluid. The Judgment Fund, though not directly tied to the slush fund, serves as a backup option for the DOJ. This raises the possibility that the administration may pivot to this mechanism if the slush fund’s revival proves too contentious. The outcome of these developments could have significant implications for both the DOJ’s credibility and the financial support available to Trump’s allies in the aftermath of the January 6 events.
