Trump announced a $1.8 billion government fund ostensibly for victims of DOJ "weaponization" — but critics call it a slush fund for allies. The settlement bars prosecution or further auditing of Trump family taxes, potentially saving them from penalties exceeding $100 million. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said the order is intended to last "FOREVER."

This emerged from a $10 billion lawsuit Trump and his family filed against the US government over the leak of their tax returns. "I'm supposed to work out a settlement with myself," the president told reporters. Treasury's top lawyer quit as details broke. Former DOJ special counsel Brendan Ballou called it "the most corrupt action in American history."

The fund has no clear definition of "weaponization" and could benefit Jan. 6 rioters, including Proud Boys seeking $100 million and Oath Keepers. All five commission members deciding payouts will be appointed by Blanche, whom Trump can dismiss at will. Legal experts question whether this arrangement can survive court scrutiny.