President Donald Trump filed an appeal on August 1, 2026, seeking to reinstate his 'anti-weaponization' fund, which has faced criticism from lawmakers across party lines. The appeal was submitted to the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Atlanta, following a federal judge's ruling earlier this month that found Trump and the Justice Department had manipulated the judicial process for their benefit.
Critics have raised concerns that the fund could be used to settle claims from individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riots. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has not complied with the judge's directive to provide written confirmation that the fund has been terminated, maintaining that his previous verbal assurances are sufficient. The confirmation process for Blanche has been stalled by Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis, both Republicans, who are demanding written guarantees from the Department of Justice regarding the fund and a deal to protect Trump and his businesses from future IRS audits.
Trump expressed his views on the fund, stating that the lives of the January 6 rioters have been 'unfairly and illegally destroyed' by the Biden administration. He emphasized the need for compensation for those he believes have suffered government abuse. In response, Senator Tillis remarked that Trump's comments highlight the reasons for their efforts to formally end the fund, criticizing the delay in Blanche's confirmation due to the actions of a personal advisor to Trump. Negotiations between the senators and the DOJ are ongoing, with Trump indicating he is willing to delay the nomination until Cornyn and Tillis are no longer in office. The appeal filed on Friday does not include any legal arguments.