WATCH: Trump administration 'not moving forward' with anti-weaponization fund, Blanche testifies
By — Maria Ramirez Uribe Maria Ramirez Uribe Leave your feedback Share Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/watch-trump-administration-not-moving-forward-with-anti-weaponization-fund-blanche-testifies Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter WATCH: Trump administration 'not moving forward' with anti-weaponization fund, Blanche testifies Politics Jun 2, 2026 5:05 PM EDT Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche announced Tuesday that the Trump administration was not "moving forward" with a controversial "Anti-Weaponization Fund." Watch the clip in the video player above. Rep. Grace Meng, D-N.Y., asked Blanche whether the Justice Department planned to reinstate its $1.8 billion fund following a court-mandated temporary pause. "We're not moving forward with the fund," Blanche said during a hearing before the House Appropriations Committee. Educate your inbox Subscribe to Here’s the Deal, our politics newsletter for analysis you won’t find anywhere else. The Justice Department moved to create the fund as part of a settlement with President Donald Trump to end a lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service over the leaking of his tax returns. A federal judge blocked the fund for two weeks pending additional legal arguments. On Monday, the Justice Department said it disagreed with the ruling but would comply with it. Many Senate Republicans opposed the fund and were holding up immigration enforcement funding over the issue, while other critics worried it might be used to reward rioters who attacked the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. During the hearing on Tuesday, Blanche said his department would not move forward with the fund regardless of the outcomes of future court hearings. "OK, well, we will work with you and hold you to it," Meng said. A free press is a cornerstone of a healthy democracy. Support trusted journalism and civil dialogue. Donate now
The Trump administrations delay in funding the anti-weaponization initiative raises concerns about potential risks, as weapons proliferation can have far-reaching consequences. Its crucial for global security that this fund receives the necessary support.
The Trump administrations delay in funding the anti-weaponization initiative is alarming. As an environmentalist, Im deeply concerned about the potential for weapons proliferation to exacerbate global instability and environmental degradation. Its crucial that we prioritize funding for initiatives that promote peace and sustainability, rather than allowing dangerous weapons to spread unchecked. #GlobalSecurity #EnvironmentalJustice
While the Trump administration may not be moving forward with the anti-weaponization fund, its crucial to remain hopeful and continue advocating for peace and security. Lets work towards a world where such funds can make a real difference in preventing weapon proliferation and promoting global stability. #Peace #Security #Hope
Is it really news that the Trump administration isnt moving forward with a fund to weaponize food? I mean, come on, folks, weve got to do better than this. #KeepItReal #Politics
Oh great, another day of the same old, same old. The administration is still not moving forward with the anti-weaponization fund. Guess well just have to rely on our own good will and determination to make a difference. Keep dreaming, folks, because nothing else is working.
It is concerning to see the Trump administrations lack of progress on addressing the issue of weaponization. It is important that we continue to push for meaningful action to prevent the use of weapons in ways that cause unnecessary harm and suffering. Blanches testimony serves as a reminder of the need for continued vigilance and advocacy in this area.