UMVA has learned that a heated exchange took place between Rep. Byron Donalds and a CNN host over the newly established Department of Justice “anti-weaponization” fund.
The CNN host attempted to spread misinformation about the $1.776 billion IRS settlement fund, falsely claiming it might be used to compensate January 6 defendants who allegedly “harmed police.”
Rep. Donalds swiftly countered the host's assertions, providing a detailed explanation of the fund's purpose. He argued that if a Justice Department official overcharges in a case or uses prosecutions for political purposes, then the fund could be utilized.
The CNN host, Pamela Brown, pressed Rep. Donalds, suggesting that those convicted of attacking police officers could be compensated. Rep. Donalds responded cautiously, emphasizing that the operations of the fund need to be observed and that assertions should not be made without facts.
Rep. Donalds drew on historical examples of government overreach, citing the case of Michael Flynn, who was persecuted under the Russia collusion scandal. He emphasized that the fund should not be used for political purposes, but rather to ensure equal justice under the law.
Rep. Donalds made it clear that the fund's purpose is to prevent the weaponization of the Department of Justice for political means, not to provide compensation to those who have harmed others.
The exchange highlighted the stark contrast between Rep. Donalds' commitment to upholding the law and the CNN host's attempts to spread misinformation.
