Republican Lawyer Sought for DOJ Panel Overseeing Anti-Weaponization Fund

By May 20, 2026, a Republican lawyer with close ties to Ed Martin, the U.S. pardon attorney, submitted a request to join a panel tasked with distributing over $1.7 billion to those claiming to be victims of legal intimidation. This information comes from a letter obtained by CBS News.

On a recent Wednesday, lawyer Mike Howell expressed his intent to join the ‘anti-weaponization fund’ in a letter to Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. Blanche is responsible for appointing the five-member commission overseeing the fund, according to a memo he endorsed this week. The fund emerged as part of the DOJ’s settlement of a $10 billion lawsuit that former President Trump filed against the IRS, following the leak of his tax returns.

Howell highlighted his previous experiences as a witness before the House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate. He has also appeared on national platforms to discuss cases involving Americans targeted for political views and faith. Howell stressed his ongoing commitment, stating: “I have written, sued, defended, and advocated every single day.”

If appointed, Howell would oversee compensation claims to the fund, which the DOJ says will function until 2028. Howell, a companion of Martin, assisted with Martin’s Senate confirmation process for U.S. attorney for D.C., though Martin did not permanently secure the position. In his role, Howell is also president of the Oversight Project, focusing on alleged government overreach. Additionally, he is a visiting fellow at the Heritage Foundation.

Howell believes the anti-weaponization fund represents a significant move by President Trump and Acting Attorney General Blanche. He shared his enthusiasm with CBS News, committing “to make sure it is a success.” The Justice Department has not yet commented.

Howell’s application marks the first public request for the DOJ commission role. Meanwhile, Michael Caputo, a former Trump adviser, has requested compensation, claiming FBI targeting during a Russian interference investigation. Howell, if chosen, aims to organize a national gathering of weaponized victims in Washington, D.C.

Howell’s letter to Blanche included a pledge: “These victims will include those burdened with legal fees for supporting President Trump, and those imprisoned, including January 6th participants.” The event intends to provide a platform for sharing their experiences.