Applicants for Trump’s $1.8 Billion Fund Include Multiple Pardoned Individuals

Several people who received presidential pardons or faced federal charges related to the 2020 election have indicated they will apply for compensation from the $1.8 billion fund. Michael Caputo, a former Health and Human Services spokesperson, was the first known applicant and is seeking $2.7 million.

He cited an FBI investigation into Russian election interference and a separate probe into a documentary about former President Joe Biden.

Santos, who was sentenced to seven years for wire fraud and identity theft before receiving a pardon, told The Washington Post he is considering an application but prefers a formal apology over money. Michael Cohen, Roger Stone, and Mike Lindell have also said they plan to submit claims or are preparing applications.

Enrique Tarrio, former Proud Boys leader, told PBS News he believes he is owed compensation in the mid-tens of millions after serving 22 years for seditious conspiracy before his pardon. Adam Johnson, who carried House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s lectern during the Capitol events, announced on X that he intends to file a claim.

Mark McCloskey, who pleaded guilty to misdemeanor charges after pointing guns at demonstrators and later received a pardon, told The Washington Post he represents January 6 defendants considering claims and may apply himself. Tina Peters, convicted for attempting to breach Colorado’s election system, is set for release June 1 after her sentence was commuted.

Lawyers for January 6 defendants and anti-abortion activists have reported increased interest from clients. A lawyer for anti-immigration protesters in Chicago whose charges were dropped said the group may also apply. Moms for Liberty stated it is exploring options for restitution after the Justice Department cited Biden-era monitoring of threats against school officials when announcing the fund.