Donald Trump may agree to drop his massive $10bn lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service in exchange for the launch of a $1.7bn fund to compensate people he says were wrongfully targeted by the Biden administration, according to reports. The case is the latest example of how Trump has taken over the justice department – which typically operates at arm’s length from the White House – and deployed it for his own ends.
Details of the Proposed Settlement
Among other people, more than 1,500 January 6 rioters would be eligible to receive compensation from the fund, ABC said. The treasury department’s Judgment Fund, a pool of taxpayer funds reserved to pay out court judgments and settlements, would allegedly become the vehicle for Trump’s self-styled victim compensation fund. Under the terms of settlement deliberations, Trump is also allegedly asking the IRS to issue a public apology for the disclosure of his personal financial records, and to waive an IRS audit of Trump, his family and his businesses. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Broader Political Implications
If the case is settled for the full amount Trump is requesting, a $10bn payment would more than double his family’s net worth. This unprecedented move has drawn criticism from those who see it as a misuse of taxpayer funds for personal and political gain. The fund would effectively compensate individuals who have supported Trump, including those involved in the Capitol attack.
Other Developments in Trump's Political Landscape
- Lauren Boebert suggests Trump withheld funds over election denier prosecution. Republican congresswoman Lauren Boebert suggested that Trump blocked funds for a clean drinking water project in Colorado over the prosecution of election denier Tina Peters.
- Pardoned January 6 defendants accused of new crimes. At least five people pardoned by Trump for their roles in the Capitol attack have been accused of committing new crimes.
- Louisiana primary tests Trump's endorsement power. Senator Bill Cassidy, who voted to impeach Trump, faces a tough primary in Louisiana as Trump backs his opponent.
- Kentucky voters decide on Trump's influence. Congressman Thomas Massie, criticized by Trump as a 'lowlife', faces a primary that will test Trump's political strength.
Other Notable News
A Kansas judge has temporarily blocked a law banning gender-transition treatments for minors. CBS News insiders fear Bari Weiss will soon enact 'massive changes' to 60 Minutes. Thousands rallied in Alabama for Black voting rights. Trump announced that US and Nigerian forces killed the 'second in command' global leader of the Islamic State. Trump raised the case of jailed Hong Kong democracy campaigner Jimmy Lai in talks with Xi Jinping but was told it 'is a tough one'.
