Afternoon Briefing — May 29, 2026

DOJ Fund Blocked. A judge has temporarily blocked payouts from a Trump DOJ "$1.776 billion 'anti-weaponization' settlement fund" as a suit proceeds. The judge also temporarily blocked DOJ work on the fund. Additionally, the judge ordered that Trump's name must be removed from the Kennedy Center, blocking its closure and renaming. This action prevents the nearly $2 billion fund from being disbursed while legal challenges continue.

Bondi and Epstein Files. Bondi refused to answer lawmakers' questions about Trump's involvement in the release of Epstein files. Bondi defended the handling of the Epstein files to a House panel, casting blame on missteps. Representative Garcia stated that Bondi refused to answer any questions about Trump and Epstein files. Epstein survivors are pressing Comer to interview Bondi under oath regarding the release of the files.

Louisiana Redistricting. Louisiana approved a new congressional map that eliminates a majority-Black district. The Louisiana Legislature passed this new map, which is favored by the GOP and designed to give the party another seat. Lawmakers passed the gerrymandered map after a Supreme Court ruling. This move dismantles a majority-Black district to pick up a GOP seat.

White House and Federal Grants. The White House is moving to give political appointees more power over federal grants. This action could shift influence in the allocation of federal funds. The change aims to centralize control over grant distribution.