Judge Blocks Trump's Controversial $1.8 Billion Fund Indefinitely

A U.S. judge has indefinitely blocked a $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization' fund backed by President Trump, requiring the administration to prove the fund is halted. The fund was intended for those claiming political targeting, amid legal challenges and controversy surrounding its legality and purpose.

In a decisive move on Friday, U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema of Virginia halted the Trump administration's $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization' fund. The fund, dubbed a 'slush fund' by critics, is under scrutiny over allegations of favoritism and legality while aiming to aid those affected by political targeting.

The preliminary injunction halts the creation of the fund amid a lawsuit claiming it unfairly supports a select few who allegedly suffered political bias. The lawsuit comes from a settlement between Trump and the Justice Department after a high-profile case against the IRS. Brinkema demands the administration provide a declaration proving the fund won't proceed.

During a court session, DOJ lawyer Andrew Block argued against issuing an order based on speculations, but Brinkema grilled him on the lack of formal statements halting the fund. The judge's decision to place a hold stands unless concrete evidence is submitted, offering a week's time for the administration to comply.