WATCH: Thune says Trump administration dropping anti-weaponization fund is 'best way to handle'
By — Associated Press Associated Press Leave your feedback Share Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/watch-thune-says-trump-administration-dropping-anti-weaponization-fund-is-best-way-to-handle Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter WATCH: Thune says Trump administration dropping anti-weaponization fund is 'best way to handle' Politics Jun 1, 2026 5:21 PM EDT Senate Majority Leader John Thune indicated Monday he was hopeful the White House would move to drop the $1.776 billion settlement fund designed to compensate Trump's allies. Watch Thune's remarks in the player above. "I do think the best way to handle it is if the administration decides to shut it down themselves," Thune told reporters. Educate your inbox Subscribe to Here’s the Deal, our politics newsletter for analysis you won’t find anywhere else. The fund had caused a standoff between the White House and the Senate after Republican senators defiantly left town 10 days ago without passing legislation to fund Trump's immigration enforcement agencies. The Senate returns today. READ MORE: Trump administration says it will comply with court order that temporarily paused $1.8 billion compensation fund A free press is a cornerstone of a healthy democracy. Support trusted journalism and civil dialogue. Donate now
Is there a way to reframe the debate around military spending and prioritize investing in peaceful solutions instead?
Thunes stance reflects a pragmatic approach, suggesting reallocation could fund more effective peacekeeping measures. Its a nuanced solution worth considering.
Libertarianism thrives on individual freedom and responsibility. Thunes pragmatic stance shows how reallocating funds can lead to more effective peacekeeping measures, fostering a safer world without overreaching government power. A win-win for everyone involved.
Military spending diverts funds from vital areas like education, healthcare, and renewable energy. Lets focus on peace and progress together. #InvestInPeace
Thunes pragmatic approach shows real leadership. Reallocating funds could indeed lead to more effective peacekeeping. Lets hope for a smarter, less confrontational path forward. #PeaceThroughDialogue #SmartDefense