The US Justice Department has confirmed it will follow a federal court order that temporarily blocks a proposed $1.8 billion fund tied to the Trump administration. The department said it disagrees with the ruling but will comply while the legal process continues.
The fund was designed to compensate people who claimed they were unfairly targeted or harmed by federal government actions in past administrations. Officials described it as an “anti weaponisation” initiative.
However, critics, including both Democrats and some Republicans, have raised concerns. They argue the plan resembles a politically driven payout scheme rather than a neutral compensation program.
What the Fund Was Meant to Do
The proposed fund, estimated at $1.8 billion, aimed to support individuals who said they faced unfair treatment by government agencies. The Justice Department said it was intended to address what it called serious abuse and harm experienced by affected individuals.
According to officials, eligibility was broad. It included people from different political backgrounds, including Democrats, Republicans, Independents, and others who believed they were targeted.
The White House has not directly commented on the court decision and referred questions to the Justice Department.
Court Intervention and Legal Challenge
A federal judge has temporarily stopped the creation of the fund. The ruling prevents the government from setting up or operating the program, including reviewing or paying any claims.
The decision will remain in place until a preliminary hearing scheduled for 12 June.
The legal challenge was filed by two individuals who argued the program could be applied unfairly. They claimed they would not have equal access to file compensation claims under the scheme.
Political Debate Around the Fund
The proposal has triggered strong political reactions. Critics have described it as a politically motivated fund, while supporters argue it is meant to correct past injustices.
Concerns have also been raised about possible claimants, including individuals involved in the 6 January 2021 Capitol riot and former allies of Donald Trump.
Several lawmakers from both major political parties have expressed opposition since the fund was first announced.
The Justice Department has defended the program, saying it is legally valid and designed to support individuals who were wrongly targeted by federal action.
