86% reject Trump’s taxpayer-funded ads

An overwhelming majority of Americans disapprove of using taxpayer money for TV ads featuring President Donald Trump ahead of the November midterm elections, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll. Sixty-six percent of respondents, and four out of five Republicans, stated that it is inappropriate to use public funds for election-related advertisements promoting the president or his cabinet.

The six-day poll, which concluded on Monday, found that 86% of Americans opposed taxpayer-funded ads starring Trump. Ethics experts and lawmakers from both parties have criticized three nationally broadcast ads celebrating a golden age of America, airing before the November 3 midterm elections. Lawmakers raised concerns over whether public funds were being used to promote Trump politically or violate long-standing restrictions on government propaganda and political activity.

Trump and his aides argued that the ads were educational and patriotic, aimed at reminding Americans to love their country and understand its worth. The White House spokesperson declined to comment on the matter, while Trump indicated he would pay for future ads himself or using money from the MAGA political committee. The ads, which feature a chorus repeating "love me" and images of Mount Rushmore, ended with a disclaimer that they were paid for by the US government.