WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump announced on October 6, 2026, that he will cease using taxpayer funds for television advertisements that promote himself, which have faced significant criticism. Instead, he stated that his super PAC, MAGA, Inc., will cover the costs of these advertisements moving forward.
In a post on his social media platform, Trump defended the advertisements, which have reportedly cost at least $1.5 million in federal funds, describing them as "positive promotion for our Great U.S.A." He attributed the backlash regarding the use of taxpayer funds to the "Radical Left" and indicated that he has decided to fund the ads personally and through his political organization.
As of the end of July, Trump's political war chest had exceeded $400 million, which he has started to use to support Republican candidates ahead of the midterm elections.
The White House confirmed that MAGA, Inc. will finance future advertisements, but did not provide information on how it would ensure that political funds are used for these ads or whether Trump would reimburse taxpayers for previously aired advertisements.
Criticism of the taxpayer-funded ads has come from leaders across both political parties. Legal experts have raised concerns that the advertisements may violate federal laws prohibiting the use of appropriated funds for publicity or propaganda and restricting the political activities of government employees.
The initial advertisement featured Trump discussing defeating communism, highlighting tax cuts, and promoting law enforcement. A second ad showcased scenic views of Mount Rushmore with excerpts from Trump's speech during the Fourth of July celebrations. A third ad closely resembled a campaign advertisement for Trump's 2024 reelection bid, featuring him warning of a "final battle" against perceived threats. All advertisements concluded with the message: "Paid for by the U.S. Government."
According to AdImpact, which monitors media spending, the ads had cost at least $1.4 million by the end of September, although the total expenditure may be higher depending on how networks categorize the advertisements.