U.S. President Donald Trump said his super PAC, MAGA Inc., will pay for future television advertisements that had been funded with federal money. The move follows criticism from lawmakers and legal experts over ads featuring Trump and promoting his administration.
The advertisements began airing in late September and were funded through a $20 million Department of Homeland Security contract. At least $1.4 million had been spent on the ads by the end of September, according to AdImpact.
Trump has not committed to reimbursing taxpayers for the money already spent. The White House has defended the advertisements as public service announcements, while critics and some legal experts have questioned whether the use of federal funds could violate restrictions on government-funded political propaganda.
Key takeaway:
The controversy highlights the growing scrutiny around the use of government-funded advertising, political messaging and campaign-related communications ahead of the 2026 U.S. midterm elections.