The Justice Department (DOJ) declined to provide a sworn declaration from acting Attorney General Todd Blanche regarding the abandonment of President Donald Trump’s proposed anti-weaponization fund. The DOJ argued that a federal judge’s request for such declarations raises concerns about separation of powers.
In a filing submitted to U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema, the DOJ stated that sworn statements from Blanche, Associate Attorney General Stanley Woodward, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent were unnecessary, as the administration has consistently indicated that the fund is not proceeding.
The DOJ's response follows Brinkema's recent decision to block the establishment of the fund and her order for the government to submit declarations verifying that it would not be revived. Brinkema indicated that such declarations could lead to the dismissal of a lawsuit challenging the fund.
A DOJ spokesperson noted that the department has previously confirmed in court filings and congressional testimony that the plan is not moving forward. The spokesperson criticized the judge’s demand for declarations, stating it could interfere with the department's routine settlement authority.
The anti-weaponization fund was introduced by the DOJ in May as part of a settlement arrangement related to Trump’s lawsuit against the IRS concerning the leak of his tax returns. The fund aimed to compensate individuals who claimed improper targeting by federal investigations during the Biden administration, but it faced criticism from both Democrats and some Republicans.
Despite the administration's disavowal of the proposal, Brinkema expressed skepticism about whether the issue had been fully resolved, citing Trump’s public comments expressing disappointment over the fund's halt. The DOJ reiterated that the fund is not moving forward.