Trump Backs Republican Fund for January 6 Defendants, With Conditions

President Trump said he would support a Republican-backed fund to pay legal expenses for people charged in connection with the January 6 Capitol riot, but indicated he would oppose using taxpayer money for those accused of attacking law enforcement.

"The weaponization fund is a great idea," Trump told NBC's Meet the Press in an exclusive interview. "If Republicans don't get it approved, I'd be disappointed."

When asked directly whether Capitol riot defendants who assaulted police officers should receive taxpayer money, Trump said, "I wouldn't be inclined to say so, but I have to see it."

The Republican proposal, referred to as the weaponization fund, would provide financial support to individuals facing federal charges related to the January 6 Capitol breach. Republicans have framed the fund as a response to what they characterize as selective prosecution of their supporters. Democrats have opposed the idea, arguing it would inappropriately use public money to defend people accused of violence against law enforcement and democratic processes.

Trump's conditional support reflects a position between full endorsement and rejection. He said he would pay fund applicants "the kind of money they deserve," though he did not specify an amount or detail which defendants would qualify.

More than 1,000 people have faced federal charges stemming from the January 6 riot. These charges range from trespassing and disorderly conduct to assault on officers and seditious conspiracy. Roughly 140 law enforcement officers were injured during the breach, according to Capitol Police records.

The fund proposal remains under discussion among Republican lawmakers but has not advanced to a vote in Congress. House Republicans on the Judiciary Committee have supported the measure, while Democratic members have called it a misuse of federal resources.

Trump did not elaborate on how he would distinguish between defendants who attacked police and those charged with other offenses. His statement leaves open the possibility that some Capitol riot defendants could receive support under the fund even if others do not.