A group of lawyers closely allied with President Trump orchestrated a deal to resolve a $10 billion lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The agreement emerged after intense discussions within this select group, leaving some senior White House officials feeling caught off guard.
The settlement resulted in the establishment of a $1.8 billion fund. This fund aims to compensate individuals deemed harmed by government’s actions, referred to as ‘weaponization’. It also provides tax benefits to President Trump, his family, and businesses. This resolution was crafted by a group of loyal lawyers, working quietly behind the scenes.
Key players involved in the negotiations included the Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, who previously served as Trump’s criminal defense lawyer. On the opposite side was Trump’s legal team, led by Boris Epshteyn, a former client of Blanche. Epshteyn played a pivotal role in advancing the settlement discussions, coordinating efforts with all involved parties, including the Justice Department and Trump’s private lawyers.
These discussions took place under tight secrecy. Senior White House officials only became aware of the agreement as it neared completion, feeling blindsided by the development. Although the settlement did not fulfill Trump’s initial demand to move funds directly from the Treasury into his account, it still represented a significant victory for him and his allies.
The agreed settlement enables a $1.8 billion fund available for individuals impacted by the government’s perceived actions. Among potential beneficiaries could be hundreds of rioters charged with storming the Capitol on January 6, 2021. The deal also shields Trump and his businesses from potentially expensive IRS audits.