Fundraising Controversy: Trump’s Use of Fallen Soldiers in Campaign Appeals

A fundraising email from President Donald Trump’s political action committee, Never Surrender Inc., has drawn significant criticism for its use of a photograph depicting Trump saluting the casket of a U.S. soldier during a dignified transfer ceremony. This ceremony honored six Army Reservists killed by an Iranian drone strike in Kuwait on March 7, 2026. The email promotes a “National Security Briefing Membership,” promising donors access to Trump’s private national security briefings and updates on various threats facing the nation.

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The email, sent on March 14, features an official White House photograph of Trump saluting while wearing a white “USA” baseball cap. It invites recipients to join the membership for exclusive insights, stating, “You’ll get the inside scoop DIRECT from me, President Trump.” The email includes multiple links to a donation page, suggesting contributions ranging from $26 to $3,300. This fundraising tactic has been part of a broader strategy by Trump’s PACs, which have sent numerous appeals referencing the ongoing conflict with Iran since it began on February 28, 2026.

CNN

The use of imagery from a solemn military ceremony for fundraising purposes has prompted backlash from various political figures and veterans' organizations. California Governor Gavin Newsom's office condemned Trump, labeling him a “deeply SICK and DISGUSTING MAN” for allegedly profiting off the deaths of service members. Democratic Senator Andy Kim expressed concern that the national security briefings offered in the email might overlook critical issues, referencing a CNN report on the Iran conflict's implications for the Strait of Hormuz.

CNN

The White House has not provided a direct response to the controversy surrounding the fundraising email. However, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissed a related CNN report as “100% FAKE NEWS.” The Pentagon has reported that at least 13 U.S. service members have been killed and approximately 140 injured since the conflict began, highlighting the ongoing dangers faced by military personnel.

Newsweek

Trump's fundraising efforts during wartime echo historical precedents where political figures have leveraged military actions for electoral gain. Political analysts note that while the use of such imagery may be seen as distasteful, it is not unprecedented in American political history. The strategy aims to galvanize support among Trump's base, particularly as public sentiment regarding the Iran conflict remains mixed.

The Dispatch

As the situation evolves, it remains unclear how the ongoing conflict will impact Trump's fundraising efforts and political standing. Critics continue to voice their discontent over the ethical implications of using fallen soldiers in campaign appeals, suggesting a potential shift in public perception as the war progresses.

The Dispatch

• “Donald Trump is fundraising off of dead soldiers. He is a deeply SICK and DISGUSTING MAN!” — Press Office, California Governor Gavin Newsom

CNN

• “Not a shred of dignity to be found anywhere in this administration,” — Naveed Shah, Army veteran and political director for Common Defense

The Independent

• “To have that imagery used for partisan advertising and fundraising, that’s a bridge, you know, a new bridge that we’re crossing,” — Daniel Weiner, Director, Brennan Center for Justice

Trump fundraising pitch features U.S. soldiers killed in Iran war

This fundraising controversy highlights the intersection of politics and military sacrifice, raising questions about the appropriateness of such tactics in the context of ongoing conflict.

The Dispatch