Senate Republicans have voiced opposition to permanently ending President Donald Trump’s nearly $2 billion “anti-weaponization” fund. Despite internal criticism, Republicans and Democrats shut down an amendment by Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., aimed at preventing the fund from resurfacing and redirecting the money to a fraud fund. While Senate Democrats dislike the fund, diverting the money was too much for most of the caucus.
A dozen Republicans voted for the amendment, showing broad disapproval of the fund and any future plans for it. The amendment’s failure may halt efforts to permanently end the fund. This development followed delays during the Senate’s extended voting process to pass a GOP-backed $70 billion immigration enforcement package.
BOTH PARTIES TARGET TRUMP’S $2B FUND AS ICE FUNDING PACKAGE ENTERS DANGER ZONE
Sen. Thom Tillis warned colleagues that he would not support the upcoming budget reconciliation if it included $1 billion for Trump’s ballroom. The fund, announced as part of a settlement with the IRS, faced Republican opposition due to concerns that those convicted of assaulting police during the Capitol riot could access taxpayer money.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stated the administration would not pursue the fund, but Trump expressed uncertainty about its fate, telling reporters, “I’d have to ask the lawyers. I don’t know.” Trump praised the fund, calling it “a beautiful thing.”
Tillis challenged the administration’s stance, asking, “Why not use this moment to codify that?” He expressed concern about the political ramifications for Republican members if the fund remains unresolved until Election Day.
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Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., plans to continue efforts against the fund, joining Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., in opposition. Some Republicans argue the bill doesn’t address the fund directly and want to tackle the issue if Trump attempts to revive it.
People say, ‘But, oh, Trump may someday again do the weaponization fund,'” said Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky. “Well, then address it if he tries to do it, if it’s unpopular. People can address it when it happens.”
Alex Miller writes for Fox News Digital, focusing on the U.S. Senate.