Donald Trump has addressed reports that he is seeking hundreds of millions of dollars in damages from the Justice Department, describing it as “awfully strange.” He noted that pursuing such a claim would mean effectively paying himself, underscoring the unusual dynamic at play.
Trump reportedly seeks damages from own Justice Department

Key Takeaways:
- Trump is reportedly seeking hundreds of millions of dollars in damages from his own Justice Department.
- The former President called it “awfully strange” to effectively pay himself.
- The news was published in Wv News on October 21, 2025.
- The situation expands upon controversies surrounding Trump’s presidency.
- Trump’s remarks highlight the unusual legal scenario of a president targeting his own administration.
The Legal Dispute
In a development that has startled legal experts and the public alike, Donald Trump is reportedly exploring a claim for hundreds of millions of dollars in damages against the Justice Department. While full details remain unclear, the notion that a president—current or former—might launch a lawsuit against an agency he once oversaw has drawn widespread attention.
Trump’s Response
Speaking about these reports, Trump himself characterized the idea of awarding damages to him via the Justice Department as “awfully strange.” This blunt assessment captures the paradox: if a court were to award substantial damages, the payment would, in essence, come from the federal government he once led. Trump’s remark underscores the rarity and complexity of this situation.
Broader Context
This latest story reflects a broader context of controversies during Trump’s presidency. From legal battles to political disagreements, the 45th President regularly found himself at odds with various branches of the federal government. Seeking damages from the Justice Department specifically underscores the ongoing tension between Trump’s personal interests and official executive actions.
Where Things Stand
At present, the public has minimal information about the specifics of any legal strategy, though Trump’s statement suggests he is giving the possibility real consideration. Whether or not legal proceedings will be pursued remains uncertain. For observers, the scenario highlights how a president’s ongoing conflicts with the government he represented can have lasting, unusual repercussions.