Opponents face significant legal and political hurdles in challenging President Trump’s $1.776 billion IRS settlement, though experts say cracks could appear over time. Here’s what to know:
Big picture: Challenging the deal will be difficult for now. Trump ended his lawsuit before a judge reviewed it, leaving critics with limited legal options.
Why it’s hard to challenge: Experts say most opponents lack legal standing, but that could change later if people dispute payouts or a future administration revisits Trump’s audit protections.
Who can file a claim: The fund would compensate people alleging government “weaponization,” and officials say January 6 defendants could be eligible, prompting lawsuits from two Capitol police officers who say the fund could embolden those who threatened them. Read that complaint here.
What could change: While many critics lack standing now, individuals denied compensation could gain it later. Some lawyers say even a rejected claim by someone like Hunter Biden could open the door to broader challenges.
Congress’ role: Congress may ultimately decide the issue. Democrats argue the fund violates the Constitution’s Appropriations Clause, and some Republicans have expressed concern. But with Republicans in control, near-term action is unlikely, though that could change after future elections.
Tom Hals and Jonathan Stempel have more here.
