E. Jean Carroll Says She May Seek Compensation From Proposed Trump “Anti-Weaponization” Fund

WASHINGTON — Writer and columnist E. Jean Carroll said Tuesday that she believes she could qualify for compensation under  President Donald Trump’s proposed $1.776 billion “anti-weaponization” restitution fund, a plan currently under discussion among congressional allies of the president.

Speaking during an appearance on a political talk program, Carroll said she intends to submit an application “the moment Congress approves it,” arguing that she was directly affected by years of public attacks and legal disputes tied to Trump and his supporters.

“I assume the fund is meant for people who were caught up in political retaliation and prolonged legal conflict,” Carroll said. “If that’s the standard, I believe I qualify.”

The proposed fund, introduced in draft form by Republican lawmakers aligned with Trump, is intended to compensate individuals and organizations they claim were harmed by politically motivated investigations, prosecutions, or government actions during the past decade. Supporters have described the proposal as a corrective measure aimed at restoring public trust in federal institutions.

Critics, however, have questioned both the legality and scope of the initiative, arguing that the criteria for eligibility remain vague and potentially open to abuse. Several constitutional scholars have also raised concerns over whether Congress could authorize such a large compensation program without extensive oversight mechanisms.

Carroll’s comments immediately drew attention because of her long-running legal battle with Trump. In recent years, Carroll won civil judgments against the president related to defamation and sexual abuse claims, allegations Trump has consistently denied. Trump has repeatedly characterized the lawsuits as politically motivated, while Carroll has maintained that the cases were about accountability and personal reputation.

Asked whether applying to the fund would contradict her previous criticism of Trump, Carroll dismissed the suggestion.

“If Congress creates a public compensation system and I fit the requirements, then I have every right to apply,” she said. “That’s how government programs work.”

Trump campaign representatives did not directly address Carroll’s remarks but reiterated support for the broader proposal. In a statement, spokesperson Daniel Reyes said the fund was designed “to assist Americans harmed by the weaponization of federal power,” adding that “final eligibility decisions would be determined through a formal review process.”

The legislation establishing the fund has not yet been formally introduced in either chamber of Congress, though lawmakers involved in drafting the measure say hearings could begin later this summer.

Policy analysts note that even if approved, the fund would likely face immediate court challenges over its administration, funding structure, and eligibility standards.

For now, Carroll said she is watching developments closely.

“I’ll fill out the paperwork when the time comes,” she said. “Then they can decide whether I belong in their definition of a victim.”