Trump aides sound alarm over 'obviously illegal' midterm scheme: report

U.S. President Donald Trump speaks to reporters ahead of boarding Marine One to depart for New Jersey, at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., August 1, 2025. REUTERS Jonathan Ernst

President Donald Trump’s taxpayer-funded television ad campaign has raised serious concerns among his own advisers, with several describing the initiative as potentially illegal and actively distancing themselves from it, according to a recent report.

Zeteo revealed that Trump’s allies and administration officials involved in discussions about the ads have described them as “obviously illegal,” as one senior Trump official put it. Another source close to the White House said they were approached for a role in the project but declined due to legal concerns. “It did not sound legal at all,” the individual stated.

The report also states that Trump has privately referred to these spots as “midterm ads,” according to two knowledgeable sources. However, the White House has denied this characterization, maintaining that the commercials are lawful public service announcements, not political advertising.

The controversy centers on a series of government-funded ads featuring Trump that began airing weeks before the November 3 midterm elections. One of these ads closely resembles a 2024 Trump campaign ad in which he decries a “final battle” against “globalists,” “warmongers,” and the “deep state.” Another ad plays the song “Love Me” as Trump asserts that America will never become a communist nation. All three ads conclude with the disclaimer, “Paid for by the US Government.”

Zeteo also reported that several advisers are trying to keep their names off documents and internal communications related to this campaign because they fear future congressional investigations and potential legal costs. The Department of Homeland Security has allocated $20 million for this campaign, redirecting funds initially intended for U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Federal data confirmed that a $20 million “National Media Campaign” contract was awarded to Maryland-based LMD Agency Inc. immediately after the funds were reallocated.

Critics are vocally asserting that these ads may breach restrictions on using congressionally appropriated money for government propaganda or partisan political activities. Public Citizen has called on broadcasters to stop airing the ads and has urged federal authorities to investigate potential improper partisan engagement by executive branch officials.

More than $2.5 million was already spent on these ads within the first seven days, as reported by AdImpact data. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., firmly stated that taxpayer dollars should not be used to fund this campaign.

Trump is taking a hands-on approach in selecting the ads, with Axios reporting that the campaign is set to expand as Election Day draws closer. “This is just the beginning,” an administration official declared.

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