Full Breakdown
Todd Blanche’s Deal to End the Anti-Weaponization Fund and Limit Trump’s Tax Immunity
8/5/2026, 1:57:12 AM
Core Event
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche posted two documents on Sunday night rescinding the Justice Department’s May 18 2026 order that created the $1.8 billion “anti-weaponization” fund and clarifying that the May 19 2026 audit-immunity memo applies only retroactively to President Donald Trump, his two eldest sons and the Trump Organization. The move was designed to satisfy Republican Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis, whose votes were needed for Blanche’s confirmation.
Background & Context
The fund and immunity stemmed from a settlement of Trump’s $10 billion lawsuit against the IRS over leaked tax returns. Critics warned the fund could pay Jan. 6 rioters, and a federal judge blocked it as “bad-faith.”
Data & Statistics
- The anti-weaponization fund was valued at $1.8 billion.
- A New York Times analysis estimated a possible $100 million tax liability for Trump from ongoing audits.
Official Statements & Responses
- “My team and I have met with committee members and Senators over the past several weeks and addressed any concerns,” — Todd Blanche.
- “We look forward to voting to advance his nomination out of the Senate Judiciary Committee soon,” — Thom Tillis.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Andrew McCarthy (National Review) argues the fund remains viable because the settlement can be altered only with all parties’ agreement.
- CNN reported Blanche acknowledged the settlement is “enforceable,” leaving the fund’s future uncertain.
- The memo narrowing immunity is unsigned, raising questions about its legal effect.
Verbatim Quotes
- “My team and I have met with committee members and Senators over the past several weeks and addressed any concerns or outstanding questions,” — Todd Blanche.
- “This supposed ‘deal’ doesn’t prevent payouts to violent insurrectionists in the future,” — Sen. Adam Schiff.
- “Absent such a modification agreement, however, the Anti-Weaponization Fund is still viable and could be revived at any time, despite Blanche’s insistence to the contrary,” — Andrew McCarthy.
What’s Next
The Senate Judiciary Committee will vote on Blanche’s nomination on Tuesday; a favorable vote sends it to the full Senate, where a single Republican defection could block confirmation. Democrats are urging legislation to permanently bar the fund and further restrict the audit-immunity provision. Trump has signaled he may pursue actions to restore the fund if Blanche’s confirmation stalls.
