A taxpayer-funded television ad featuring President Donald Trump’s anti-communist message has drawn criticism from Democrats and Republicans over its apparent political messaging and use of government funds ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
Trump Ad Draws Hatch Act Scrutiny
The 30-second advertisement features Trump declaring, “Together we will defeat communism, socialism and Marxism in America,” and “America will never be a communist country.”
It then flashed images of the president touting his administration’s tax cuts, manufacturing push and support for law enforcement.
It closes with UFC CEO Dana White praising Trump as “the toughest, most resilient person” he has met.
The advertisement identifies itself as “paid for by the U.S. Government.”
The Associated Press reported that AdImpact estimated the ad cost $14,000 and said it began airing Wednesday night during conservative programming on Fox News and Newsmax.
Raskin Raises Hatch Act Concerns Over Trump Ad
Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) argued that government employees involved in producing the ad could have violated the Hatch Act, which restricts certain political activity by federal employees.
“It is blatantly unethical under numerous federal ethics provisions proscribing the use of government resources for political campaigns,” Raskin wrote on X.
Sen. Thom Tillis (R- N.C.) also criticized the use of taxpayer money. He told reporters that the ad was “inappropriate” and compared it to the tactics of former Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.
Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) said he generally dislikes politicians using public money for campaign ads.
White House Defends Taxpayer-Funded PSA
The White House rejected the criticism, saying the advertisements are educational and patriotic rather than political.
Trump is not running in the November elections and the advertisement does not directly ask viewers to vote for any candidate.
The White House did not immediately respond to Benzinga’s request for comment.
Musician Challenges Trump Ad
The controversy also extends to the soundtrack. Musician Christian Berishaj, who performs as JMSN, said he never authorized the use of his song “Love Me.”
Berishaj said he would “never authorize” his music for “ANY political agenda or campaign” and said he is considering legal options.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock
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