In the United States, a federal judge has temporarily halted the creation of a $1.8 billion fund intended to compensate individuals who claim to have been targets of political investigations by previous presidential administrations. This decision came in response to a lawsuit filed by two men who alleged that the fund was discriminatory and would not allow them to file claims. The fund was established as part of a settlement between the Department of Justice and former President Donald Trump, who had previously sued the IRS over leaked tax returns. The judge's ruling prevents the Justice Department from taking any steps to operate the fund until a preliminary hearing scheduled for June 12. The fund has faced significant backlash from both Democrats and Republicans, with many lawmakers expressing concerns about its legality and lack of oversight. Prominent Republicans, including former Vice President Mike Pence, have criticized the fund as being offensive, particularly in light of its potential to compensate individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riot. The fund's creation was intended to address grievances related to perceived government overreach, but it has sparked a broader debate about executive authority and the use of taxpayer funds. As the situation unfolds, the Justice Department has stated its confidence in the fund's legality, despite the court's ruling.