DOJ official told GOP ally that big payouts were coming for Jan. 6 defendants  —  Months before the $1.8 billion “anti-weaponization” fund was announced, Ed Martin predicted Capitol rioters would get millions, even if it took until 2028, two people told NBC News.

Justice Department expands Trump settlement to cover his tax audits … The waiver specifically encompasses “tax returns filed before the effective date” of the settlement, which was Monday.  —  Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche signed the addendum, dated Tuesday.

New settlement term bars IRS from investigating Trump, his family for past tax issues  —  IRS barred from investigating Trump or his family for past tax issues, as part of controversial lawsuit agreement  —  Trump says strikes on Iran were imminent Blanche, pressed on Epstein, says: 'He's dead'

I.R.S. to Drop Audits of Trump and Family  —  As part of the Justice Department's compensation fund deal, officials vowed not to pursue any matters, including those involving President Trump's tax returns, that are pending.  —  The Justice Department has granted President Trump …

Trump scores major victory with Massie's primary defeat in Kentucky  —  Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) is projected to lose his Kentucky House primary race to President Trump-endorsed challenger Ed Gallrein, according to Decision Desk HQ, a major victory for the president in his bid to oust Republican lawmakers who openly defy him.

Iran is consolidating control of Hormuz with island checkpoints, diplomatic deals - and sometimes ‘fees’  —  Iran is enforcing a multi-tiered system for clearing vessels through the Strait of Hormuz as nations try to replenish dwindling energy supplies throttled by the war.