Attorney General Todd Blanche told the Senate Appropriations Committee the Justice Department’s settlement with President Trump includes a $1.7 billion “anti‑weaponization fund” and defended the provision’s purpose and safeguards. Blanche said the fund is intended to guard against political interference in law‑enforcement decisions and to preserve the department’s institutional independence.
During his testimony, Blanche faced questions from senators about how the money would be governed, who would control disbursements and what oversight mechanisms would be put in place. Committee members pressed for clarity on the scope of the fund, reporting requirements and the checks that would prevent its misuse. Blanche responded that the department would provide more detail on governance and accountability and emphasized the settlement’s aim to limit future weaponization of prosecutorial power.
The provision is part of a broader settlement between the Justice Department and the former president; details released so far identify the $1.7 billion allocation but leave many operational questions unresolved. Blanche urged lawmakers to evaluate the fund in the context of protecting the rule of law, while some senators signaled they would continue to scrutinize the arrangement to ensure transparency and proper congressional oversight.
CBS News’ Jake Rosen reported on the hearing. The Appropriations Committee’s continued review will likely shape how — and under what conditions — any funds are administered.