Republican senators publicly criticized Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche over a planned $1.8 billion fund to compensate individuals prosecuted under previous administrations. Lawmakers said the anti-weaponization account lacks adequate oversight and could benefit allies of President Donald Trump who faced legal scrutiny after the 2020 election.
Blanche has argued the fund addresses genuine grievances from people who claim politically motivated prosecution. Senate Judiciary Committee Democrats demanded an independent investigation, alleging the scheme could aid individuals involved in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack. Elizabeth Warren and Ron Wyden wrote letters requesting a formal audit.
The dispute contributed to a broader revolt that delayed a vote on ICE funding and left the budget reconciliation bill unresolved before the Memorial Day recess. Several Republicans said they support immigration enforcement funding but cannot vote for the package in its current form.
The White House has pressed for rapid passage of the reconciliation measure to fund deportation operations and other priorities. Blanche appeared before lawmakers to defend the compensation plan but failed to secure unified GOP backing. The fund’s final structure remains subject to negotiation when Congress returns in June.
The $1.8 billion fund is labeled an anti-weaponization account within the Justice Department budget. Three Republican senators who supported the Senate war powers resolution on Iran were among those raising concerns about combining immigration enforcement funding with the controversial compensation provision.
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Sources:
https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5890579-live-updates-donald-trump-reconciliation-compensation-fund/