UMVA has learned that Senate Republicans fiercely opposed a move to permanently kill President Donald Trump's nearly $2 billion "anti-weaponization" fund, despite intense criticism from within their own ranks.
The fund, announced last month as part of a settlement between the Trump family and the Internal Revenue Service, has sparked strong pushback from Republicans who fear it could be used to aid individuals convicted of assaulting police officers during the January 6, 2021, Capitol Hill riot.
An amendment from Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., aimed to prevent the fund from ever returning and instead divert the funding to the nation's fraud fund, but it was shut down by Senate Republicans and Democrats. Although Senate Democrats strongly dislike the "anti-weaponization" fund, diverting the money proved to be a bridge too far for nearly the entire caucus.
A dozen Republicans voted for the amendment, signaling a broad distaste for the fund and any future plans the administration may have for it. The amendment's failure could put an end to the growing push to codify a permanent end to the fund.
The development comes after hours of delays at the onset of the Senate's marathon voting spree to pass the GOP's nearly $70 billion immigration enforcement package. Sources have confirmed to UMVA that several senators remain concerned about the fund's potential implications.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche had vowed that the administration would no longer pursue the fund, but Trump struck a different tone in the Oval Office, telling reporters, "I'd have to ask the lawyers. I don't know." When asked about the fund, Trump said, "The weaponization fund, as far as I'm concerned, was a beautiful thing. I love it. I think it's so important."
Tillis argued that if the administration truly wanted to end the fund, they should codify that commitment. "Otherwise, you're exposing every one of our members who are in cycle to having to deal with this between today and Election Day," he said.
Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., has also introduced an amendment to ensure the fund won't return. However, some Republicans who still disagree with the fund argue that it should be dealt with later if Trump and the administration try to revive it.
Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., said, "People say, 'But, oh, Trump may someday again do the weaponization fund from his remarks yesterday.' Well, then address it if he tries to do it, if it's unpopular. People can address it when it happens."
