Context:

Senator Michael Bennet says the Department of Justice’s $1.8 billion settlement fund designed to compensate targets of the Biden-era DOJ is unlawful, arguing it operates as a political maneuver to aid allies and enrich Trump. He condemns the use of federal power to defend and financially benefit the former president, linking the effort to his crypto profits and to broader concerns about political influence over the judiciary. Bennet frames Trump’s handling of the DOJ as a normalizing of autocratic style, citing the January 6 attack as evidence of abuse of power and questioning the burden on taxpayers. The remarks reflect ongoing controversy over DOJ actions and the legality of the settlement, with implications for future oversight and political accountability. The comments aired on CNN’s The Source on May 18, 2026.

Dive Deeper:

• The $1.8 billion fund was created as part of a settlement with former President Donald Trump, described by the DOJ as the 'anti weaponization fund', and Bennet argues this structure is not legal.

• Bennet, who has worked at the Justice Department and briefly as a federal prosecutor, states his assessment based on his firsthand experience within the department and contends the arrangement improperly channels government resources to Trump’s allies and those deemed lawbreakers.

• He describes the settlement as a troubling turn toward political use of the DOJ, juxtaposing Trump’s alleged crypto profits with accusations against others, and he criticizes the symbol of Trump’s image displayed on government buildings.

• Bennet ties the issue to January 6, referencing the attack on the Capitol and the response of Capitol Police, arguing that compensating those involved would impose an unnecessary burden on taxpayers who are already strained.

• The remarks were delivered during a CNN appearance on The Source, highlighting broader concerns about the legality and appropriateness of the DOJ’s settlement and the potential implications for future governance and oversight.