President Trump's $1.8 billion fund for political persecution victims is permanently halted after bipartisan criticism. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, Trump's former personal lawyer, declared "We're not moving forward with the fund, period." The decision follows growing resistance from both Democrats and Republicans who questioned the allocation. Blanche confirmed that while the fund is canceled, a separate provision granting Trump and his family protection from IRS audits remains in effect.

The administration moved forward with personnel changes, naming Bill Pulte as acting director of national intelligence. Pulte leads the Federal Housing Finance Agency but lacks experience in national security—a requirement for the role. Concurrently, the White House proposed exerting more control over billions in government grants that do not align with Trump's political agenda, potentially reshaping federal funding priorities.

These developments signal the administration's approach to governance through executive action rather than bipartisan legislation. The halt to the compensation fund saves significant taxpayer money but may fuel political divisions. Meanwhile, the intelligence appointment and grant control measures suggest a consolidation of power within the administration, with potential impacts on federal programs and oversight mechanisms.