Federal Judge Blocks Trump Administration’s Compensation Fund Plan

A federal judge has halted the Trump administration’s plan to establish a $1.8 billion fund. This fund was intended to compensate individuals who claim they were unfairly prosecuted by the government. The decision, announced on Friday by Judge Leonie M. Brinkema, highlights inconsistencies from President Trump regarding the fund’s future.

During a session in Federal District Court in Alexandria, Virginia, Judge Brinkema emphasized the conflicting messages from the administration. While Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche informed Congress that the fund would not proceed, President Trump maintained his support for the compensation initiative. This inconsistency prompted the judge to intervene.

Judge Brinkema remarked that the president’s statements suggested the fund could still be revived, despite official claims to the contrary. She noted, “We just don’t have the absolute certainty that this fund won’t rear its head in another form.” To address this uncertainty, she offered the administration a path to reverse her decision.

For the judge to consider rescinding her order, the Justice Department must send a declaration within a week. This declaration, under penalty of perjury, should confirm the fund’s termination. She specified that both Mr. Blanche and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent should sign the declaration.

The ruling extends an earlier temporary pause on the fund from the end of May. It follows another recent ruling by Judge Richard J. Leon in Washington, who declined to issue a similar order.