Are Trump’s Taxpayer-Funded Ads Unlawful?
The White House has recently released multiple advertisements labeled “paid for by the US government,” including ads that praise President Donald Trump’s actions in office. Democrats, ethics experts, and watchdog groups have all claimed that the ads could violate federal laws that prohibit taxpayer money from being used for “propaganda.” Watchdog group Public Citizen has also argued that these adverts could violate a separate law which prohibits government funds from being used to “pay a publicity expert,” unless specifically designated for that purpose. Critics also argue that the recent ads could be in violation of the Hatch Act, which forbids government employees from engaging in political activities while they hold a position. Democratic Representative Jamie Raskin went further, arguing that using government resources for political self-promotion could amount to criminal theft or misuse of government property. The White House has defended the ads and rejected claims that they are politically motivated, instead describing the advertisements as “unapologetically patriotic” public service announcements.
As featured on
Taxpayer-funded TV ads featuring Trump drew fresh scrutiny Tuesday after the recording artist behind a song used in one spot demanded the White House stop using his music.
