Former President Donald Trump's allies, led by longtime adviser Michael Glassner, are establishing a new legal defense fund called the Patriot Legal Defense Fund Inc. The fund is not intended to cover Trump's legal bills but rather those of his allies and staffers who are facing criminal investigations and cases. This comes as Trump and his associates are embroiled in multiple legal battles. The fund is separate from Trump's leadership PAC, Save America, which has already spent a significant amount on legal fees this year. The exact breakdown of expenses and investigations involved has not been disclosed.

The legal landscape surrounding Trump includes charges in New York and criminal charges related to his handling of classified documents. Trump has pleaded not guilty in both cases. He may also face charges related to the Jan. 6 insurrection and alleged attempts to overturn the 2020 election results. Trump maintains his innocence in all investigations, blaming state and federal prosecutors for politically motivated claims.

Glassner, who served as the chief strategist for Trump's 2020 campaign and deputy campaign manager for his 2016 campaign, will lead the legal defense fund. Lynne Patton, a close aide to Trump in both the Trump Organization and his administration, will also be involved. The fund aims to protect innocent individuals from financial ruin and provide legal representation against what they view as unlawful harassment.

The creation of the legal defense fund could alleviate some of the financial pressure on Save America, Trump's PAC. In the first half of 2023, the PAC spent over $40 million on legal fees for Trump and witnesses. Trump now faces additional charges related to the retention of presidential material and classified documents after leaving office. Two individuals, Carlos De Oliveira and Walt Nauta, who work for Trump, have been named as co-defendants in the federal investigation.

Trump has previously resisted the idea of establishing a legal defense fund, claiming that only guilty individuals need such support. However, the mounting legal costs and ongoing investigations have prompted the creation of the Patriot Legal Defense Fund. The fund's establishment may also address criticism from opponents who have used Save America's legal payments as an attack against Trump. Trump has indicated that he is willing to contribute personal funds to his 2024 presidential campaign if necessary.