House Democrats are moving to dismantle President Trump's $1.776 billion 'Anti-Weaponization Fund,' a program born from his personal lawsuit against the IRS. The top Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee, Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), has introduced a bill that would bar any federal money from being used to create or pay into the fund, Axios reported.
Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.) told reporters he will 'try to kill' the fund, signaling possible bipartisan support. Raskin's office confirmed a discharge petition is being considered as a backup to force a floor vote if Republican leadership blocks the measure.
The fund stems from Trump's January lawsuit against the IRS and Treasury over the 2019 leak of his tax returns. The settlement gave Trump and his family a formal apology but no money, barred the IRS from auditing his past returns, and created the Anti-Weaponization Fund. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche will handpick a five-member commission to decide payouts without court appeal or public disclosure.
Critics call the program a 'slush fund' that shields decisions from judicial review and limits transparency. Raskin's bill stipulates that no federal funds may be used to make payments from the fund, aiming to shut it down entirely.
The political battle underscores deepening divides over executive power and accountability, though the administration could veto any legislation that passes. A vote on the measure in the House remains uncertain, with GOP leaders controlling the floor schedule.