Overview
- Senate Republicans openly opposed a White House proposal that included a $1.8 billion “Anti‑Weaponization” fund meant to compensate supporters who say they were politically persecuted.
- Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche faced tough questioning in a closed meeting with Senate Republicans and the session was described as so damaging that leaders canceled planned floor votes.
- Leaders also pulled a separate $72 billion immigration package and the House abandoned a vote on a resolution to halt U.S. military strikes in Iran after lawmakers concluded they lacked the votes.
- President Trump defended the fund on social media and at rallies, framing it as justice for allies while continuing to push other legacy projects such as White House security upgrades.
- Political analysts say the episode shows a visible erosion of Trump’s control over some Republican senators and could raise midterm risks for the party as voters worry about pocketbook issues and the Iran war.