Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche issued an order on Sunday evening, August 3, 2026, formally rescinding plans to create a $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization fund" intended to compensate allies of former President Donald Trump. The fund had been established by an order dated May 18, 2026, but Blanche's new order states that it "is rescinded and shall have no force or effect."

The decision followed threats by Republican Senators Thom Tillis and John Cornyn to block Blanche's confirmation as the permanent Attorney General if the fund was not rescinded in writing. Cornyn confirmed that an agreement had been reached after discussions with Blanche and other senators.

Blanche stated, "My team and I have met with committee members and Senators over the past several weeks and addressed any concerns or outstanding questions," adding that the Department of Justice "always welcomes and appreciates productive engagement with all members of Congress."

The order clarified that no members were appointed to the fund, no funds were transferred, no process for receiving claims was established, and no claims were paid. It also narrowed tax protections included in President Trump's IRS settlement to apply only retroactively, not to future filings.

After a delay caused by objections from Cornyn and Tillis, the Senate Judiciary Committee is scheduled to vote on Blanche's nomination on Tuesday, August 5, 2026.

Former President Trump expressed frustration on social media, stating that if Senators Cornyn and Tillis do not approve Blanche, he would keep him as Acting Attorney General and push for the passage of the "Anti-Weaponization Bill," which he claims would assist those he says were mistreated by the Biden administration. Trump also indicated intentions to resurrect the fund or pursue related legislation despite recent statements that the fund was dead.

Blanche previously testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee on July 15, 2026, and stands by his testimony regarding the scope and applicability of the May IRS settlement.

Sources