House Speaker Mike Johnson met with President Donald Trump at the White House on Monday as a dispute over a proposed $1.776 billion fund for the Department of Justice threatens to derail Republican efforts to pass further funding for immigration enforcement.
The fund, described by critics as a 'slush fund', is intended to compensate Americans allegedly 'targeted' by the DOJ under previous Democratic administrations. Opponents fear it could be used to pay Trump's political allies, including those convicted for the January 6 Capitol attack. The administration has not ruled this out.
The meeting came as Republican lawmakers in both chambers expressed scepticism or outright opposition to the proposal. A recent Senate meeting turned contentious, with senators reportedly 'screaming' at Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. Outgoing Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell called the plan 'utterly stupid' and 'morally wrong'.
The dispute threatens the GOP's budget reconciliation package, which is seen as the party's last chance to fund Trump's deportation efforts without Democratic support. Reports indicate Trump may be backing down in the face of a Republican revolt.
A federal judge has temporarily blocked the fund from taking effect, adding to the administration's difficulties. The White House has been contacted for comment.
