From The Straits Times · · 1m
Trump uses taxpayer money for presidency ads
Trump directs $20m taxpayer funds for ads praising his presidency.
In brief
Trump directs $20m taxpayer funds for ads praising his presidency. Trump used DHS funds for $20m TV ads promoting his presidency despite declining approval ratings. Originally reported by The Straits Times.
Trump directs taxpayer funds
President Trump personally instructed his budget director to use US$20 million in Department of Homeland Security funds for TV ads praising his presidency.
Ads air on major networks
The ads aired on Fox News, CNN, MS Now, and national newscasts including CBS, ABC, NBC, and Meet The Press.
Ads labeled government-paid
The ads were labelled as government-paid public service announcements despite legal and political criticisms.
Trump funds campaigns separately
Trump continues to heavily fund midterm campaigns through his super PAC while taxpayer-funded ads promote his image.
Public approval ratings drop
The latest ads come as Trump's standing with the public has dropped amid declining approval ratings.
The big picture
Trump used DHS funds for $20m TV ads promoting his presidency despite declining approval ratings.
