‘I Love It’: Trump Is Still in Favor of $1.8 Billion Payout Fund
The New York Times • • nation
Key Points:
- President Trump expressed continued support for a $1.8 billion fund intended to compensate his allies who claim political persecution, despite his administration officially dropping the plan amid bipartisan criticism.
- Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche announced the administration was "not moving forward with the fund, period," following widespread backlash labeling it a slush fund.
- Trump praised the fund as a "beautiful thing" and declined to confirm whether it was permanently canceled, suggesting he would need to consult lawyers for clarification.
- The president also defended the pro-Trump mob involved in the January 6 Capitol attack, calling them "great people" who "went there with love" and referenced his clemency grants to many charged in connection with the event.
- The fund's proposal sparked significant opposition from lawmakers, including Republican senators who initially blocked a spending bill until the fund was dropped, highlighting the political sensitivity surrounding the issue.