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Homeland Security Taps $20M Taxpayer Funds for Pro-Trump Ads, Sparks Outcry
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News18•30-09-2026, 03:45
Homeland Security Taps $20M Taxpayer Funds for Pro-Trump Ads, Sparks Outcry
- •The Department of Homeland Security allocated $20 million in taxpayer funds for campaign-style ads glorifying President Donald Trump, drawing widespread criticism from both Republicans and Democrats.
- •Two top Democratic senators, Patty Murray and Chris Murphy, sent a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin, stating the funds were diverted from US Customs and Border Protection and demanding answers within 48 hours.
- •Critics argue the ads, which resemble GOP midterm election slogans and feature imagery of Trump's tenure, violate anti-propaganda laws and are a corrupt misuse of taxpayer dollars, especially close to midterm elections.
- •The White House has defended the advertisements as public service announcements, despite experts noting they differ from typical PSAs by not helping Americans access specific programs.
- •Data from AdImpact shows over $2.5 million has already been spent on three ads, with the actual amount potentially higher, and the $20 million contract for a "National Media Campaign" was awarded to LMD Agency, Inc.
Key Questions Answered
The Department of Homeland Security has tapped $20 million in taxpayer funds for the campaign-style advertisements glorifying President Donald Trump.
A $20 million contract for a National Media Campaign was awarded to the Maryland-based LMD Agency, Inc.
The White House has defended the advertisements, which disclose that they are funded by the US government, by characterizing them as public service announcements.
