David Johnston, a licensed attorney, illegally entered the Capitol with supporters of President Donald Trump on January 6, 2021. He is now offering assistance to others involved in the events of that day to apply for payouts from a new fund established by the Trump administration, which totals nearly $1.8 billion for individuals claiming to be victims of a weaponized government. Johnston plans to take a 10% fee from any awarded amount, capped at $5,000.
Many individuals who participated in the Capitol riot, having pleaded guilty to various charges, are now seeking compensation from this fund, which is intended to support those who believe they were politically persecuted. Despite a bipartisan backlash and a legal freeze on the fund's establishment, some rioters are expressing optimism about receiving taxpayer money. A New Hampshire veteran, Jason Riddle, who was sentenced to 90 days in prison for his role in the riot, publicly rejected the idea of accepting government compensation, stating that it would be inappropriate given their actions.
In contrast, other rioters are more enthusiastic about the fund. Some have made claims for compensation, even though the application process has not been established and a judge has temporarily blocked the fund's creation. Critics argue that the fund serves to justify the actions of the rioters and rewrite the narrative surrounding January 6.
The fund's eligibility criteria remain uncertain, with Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche indicating that the commissioners, yet to be appointed, will determine who qualifies for compensation based on various factors, including the nature of the individual's actions and their sentencing. Meanwhile, Congress is considering whether to impose restrictions on the fund, and a federal judge has halted its establishment amid ongoing legal challenges.
