In a move that critics are calling a brazen power grab, President Trump has established a $1.8 billion fund to compensate individuals who claim they were victims of political persecution. The fund, which will be overseen by Trump allies, could potentially award millions to those involved in the January 6 Capitol riot, all paid for by U.S. taxpayers.
Political commentators Michelle Cottle, David French, and Jamelle Bouie recently discussed the implications of this fund. Bouie described it as "an illegal, probably also unconstitutional slush fund meant to pay off the rioters that the president pardoned at the beginning of his term." He noted that individuals like Enrique Tarrio, former leader of the Proud Boys, are already seeking $2 to $5 million from the fund.
David French went further, calling it "the most purely monarchical thing that he's done yet." He explained the legal absurdity: Trump is essentially suing his own IRS for alleged misconduct that occurred under his first term, with the Department of Justice—also under his control—defending the case. The resulting settlement creates a slush fund with no judicial oversight, grants Trump and his family broad immunity from civil lawsuits, and allows the fund's administrators to reimburse themselves for expenses.
This development comes amid ongoing tensions within the Republican Party, as some members express concern over the erosion of democratic norms. Critics argue that this fund represents a dangerous precedent, turning taxpayer money into a tool for rewarding political allies and punishing perceived enemies.