Trump Fundraising Email Sparks Controversy Over Use of Fallen Soldiers' Image

A fundraising email from President Donald Trump's political action committee, Never Surrender Inc., has drawn significant backlash for its use of a solemn image from a dignified transfer ceremony honoring six U.S. soldiers killed in an Iranian drone strike. The email, sent on March 12, 2026, promotes a "National Security Briefing Membership," claiming that donors will receive "private national security briefings" and "unfiltered updates on the threats facing America." The email features an official photograph of Trump saluting a flag-draped casket at Dover Air Force Base, where the remains of the soldiers were returned.

CNNThe IndependentTrump fundraising pitch features U.S. soldiers killed in Iran warInquisitrNewser

The six soldiers honored in the email were part of the first American casualties in Operation Epic Fury, which began on February 28, 2026. The soldiers were killed when an Iranian drone struck their operations center in Kuwait. The email's timing coincides with ongoing military actions, which have resulted in at least 13 U.S. service members killed and approximately 140 injured in the early weeks of the conflict.

Military Times

Criticism of the email has been widespread. California Governor Gavin Newsom's office labeled Trump as a "deeply sick and disgusting man" for allegedly profiting from the deaths of service members. Democratic Senator Andy Kim expressed concern that the briefings might overlook critical geopolitical issues, such as the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran. Representative Mike Quigley condemned Trump's actions, stating that the president is "profiting off their deaths."

CNN

The backlash has not been limited to political figures. Many social media users have condemned the email, questioning the ethics of offering national security briefings in exchange for donations. Critics have pointed out the inappropriateness of using a solemn military ceremony for fundraising purposes, with some calling it a "shameful" act. Former Obama staffer Tommy Vietor described the email as "the most disgraceful thing I have ever seen," while Arizona Senator Ruben Gallego called for Trump to retract the email and hold accountable those who approved it.

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

CNN

• “I hope the donors’ national security briefing doesn’t skip the ‘Iran will close the Strait of Hormuz’ section that Trump and Hegseth missed.” — Senator Andy Kim

The Independent

• “the most disgraceful thing I have ever seen” — Tommy Vietor, former Obama staffer

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• “Six more U.S. servicemembers died in Iran yesterday. But instead of honoring them, the President is profiting off their deaths. Whether it's neglecting to fly our flags half-mast or refusing to take off his baseball cap, Trump will always show us he does not value the lives of those in uniform. May the fallen rest in peace.” — Representative Mike Quigley

Raw Story

The White House has not yet commented on the controversy surrounding the email. As the conflict with Iran continues, further scrutiny of Trump's fundraising tactics and their implications for national security is likely to persist. The ongoing military actions and their consequences may also lead to additional political fallout as the midterm elections approach.

The Independent