Taxpayer-Funded Trump Ads Hit CBS and Cable, Drawing Democratic Legal Challenges
Updated
Updated · CBS New York · Sep 25
Taxpayer-Funded Trump Ads Hit CBS and Cable, Drawing Democratic Legal Challenges
3 articles · Updated · CBS New York · Sep 25
Summary
National networks including CBS began airing multiple taxpayer-funded ads featuring President Trump on Thursday, expanding a campaign that first appeared on Fox News and carries an on-screen "Paid for by the U.S. Government" disclosure.
The White House said the 30- and 60-second spots are public service announcements, not political ads, arguing Trump is not on the ballot and the messages are patriotic and educational rather than campaign appeals.
Democratic lawmakers demanded the ads be pulled and sought cost and contractor details, saying the campaign may violate federal bans on using appropriated funds for propaganda.
A second ad highlighted the U.S. capture of Nicolás Maduro and his wife, while the first promoted Trump's image and policies with praise from UFC CEO Dana White.
The rollout also drew a separate complaint from musician JMSN, who said he never licensed his song "Love Me," while campaign finance experts said the spots likely do not breach election law even if propaganda questions remain.