How the $1.8 Billion Trump Fund May Violate Past Practice and Policy
The New York Times • • nation
Key Points:
- The $1.8 billion fund established by the Trump administration to compensate individuals claiming mistreatment by the federal government is criticized for violating Justice Department standards and a recent policy directive.
- Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche defended the fund as "unusual" but appropriate, while Justice Department veterans expressed deep skepticism, especially regarding immunity granted to President Trump, his sons, and the Trump Organization from tax penalties.
- Critics highlight that the fund resolves a lawsuit by one group but allocates over a billion dollars to a different group, which contradicts a Trump-era policy that generally barred payments to parties not involved in the original lawsuit.
- The agreement was made without judicial oversight and may result in significant payouts to individuals who never sued the government, raising concerns about procedural propriety and potential corruption.
- The Justice Department declined to comment on the matter, leaving questions about the fund's legality and adherence to established government practices.