Trump’s ‘anti-weaponization’ fund rescinded, removing hurdle for attorney general pick

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has officially rescinded a controversial $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization" fund, a move that is expected to clear a path for his confirmation as the permanent Attorney General. The fund was established in May 2026 as part of a settlement in a lawsuit filed by former President Donald Trump against the Internal Revenue Service, aimed at compensating individuals purportedly targeted by the government. The decision to rescind the fund was formalized late Sunday, August 2, 2026, through a written order issued by Blanche.

The fund had faced significant opposition, particularly from Republican Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis, who expressed concerns it could be used to provide payments to individuals involved in the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot. These senators had threatened to block Blanche's nomination unless a written guarantee was provided that the fund would be terminated, leading to a delay in the Senate Judiciary Committee's vote on his confirmation.

Blanche's formal rescission follows earlier verbal assurances that the fund would not proceed, but lawmakers had insisted on a binding written agreement. With the fund now officially voided, a major obstacle to his appointment as Attorney General has been removed, potentially allowing the confirmation process to advance.