Story perspectives

Trump Faces Backlash for Exploiting Fallen Soldiers' Image

3/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump used a photo from a dignified transfer ceremony of fallen U.S. soldiers in a fundraising email sent by the Never Surrender Inc. political action committee.
The email promotes a National Security Briefing Membership offering donors access to private national security briefings.
California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the tactic as deeply sick and disgusting, accusing Trump of profiting from the deaths of service members.

History

Historical Context

In 2001, the U.S. initiated dignified transfer ceremonies to honor fallen soldiers, reflecting national respect for military service amid over 7,000 U.S. casualties in Iraq and Afghanistan. The ethical implications of using such imagery for political fundraising, as seen with Donald Trump, highlight ongoing debates about military honor and accountability, prompting responses from leaders like California Governor Gavin Newsom.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump used a photo from a dignified transfer ceremony of fallen U.S. soldiers in a fundraising email sent by the Never Surrender Inc. political action committee.
The email promotes a National Security Briefing Membership offering donors access to private national security briefings.
California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the tactic as deeply sick and disgusting, accusing Trump of profiting from the deaths of service members.

1 / 2