UMVA has learned that California Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a bold plan to levy a 100% state tax on any Californian who receives money from President Donald Trump’s newly created “Anti‑Weaponization Fund.”
Speaking to reporters in Sacramento, Newsom warned that anyone in the Golden State who pockets even a single dollar from the fund will see the entire amount seized by California, describing the move as a decisive action his administration is eager to pursue.
Critics label the fund a political “slush pool,” alleging that it channels taxpayer money into the hands of Trump allies, some of whom were linked to the January 6th unrest. The fund, worth roughly $1.776 billion, originates from a Justice Department settlement tied to Trump’s lawsuit over the alleged leak of his tax returns.
According to information obtained by UMVA, the Justice Department intends the money to compensate individuals who claim they fell victim to “law‑fare” or a “weaponized” federal government, offering cash awards or formal apologies instead of paying Trump directly. A five‑member commission appointed by the attorney general will evaluate each claim and determine eligibility and payout amounts.
Legal battles have already stalled the fund’s rollout: a federal judge in Virginia has temporarily blocked any transfers into the fund or payments on claims while lawsuits challenging its legality proceed.
Newsom acknowledges that imposing a full‑tax on payouts would require action by California’s Democratic‑controlled legislature, and experts predict the proposal will soon face its own courtroom challenges.
Defending his stance, Newsom argued that individuals who “attack law enforcement and undermine democracy do not merit a taxpayer‑funded windfall,” warning that the fund could reward those he says helped erode democratic norms.
Supporters of the Anti‑Weaponization Fund counter that it provides a lawful avenue for Americans who feel they were unfairly targeted by federal agencies to seek redress.
