Full Breakdown
DHS Allocates $20 Million of Border-Security Funds for Pro-Trump Television Ads
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The $20 Million Ad Campaign
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) redirected roughly $20 million—originally appropriated for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) under the “One Big Beautiful Bill”—to produce three television spots that glorify President Donald Trump. The ads feature Trump touting tax cuts, “defending law and order,” and warning of a “final battle” against “globalists” and “warmongers.”
Background & Context
The “One Big Beautiful Bill,” passed by a Republican-controlled Congress, bundled immigration-enforcement funding with a $175 billion DHS appropriation. In September 2025, the Office of Management and Budget approved the release of $20 million to CBP under a “Commemorative Events” line, which the administration used for the ads. The timing coincides with the 2026 midterm election cycle, prompting scrutiny of taxpayer dollars for political messaging.
Data & Statistics
- Allocated funds: $20 million earmarked for CBP “commemorative events.”
- Ad spend estimates: $1.4 million to over $2.5 million in the first week, per AdImpact.
- Number of spots: Three ads—“The Country He Loves,” “Celebrating the Enduring Spirit,” and “Final Battle.”
- Content highlights: One spot pairs Trump’s voice with the song “Love Me” by JMSN; another shows Mount Rushmore with narration; the third mirrors a 2024 campaign video of Trump walking down a hallway.
Official Statements & Responses
A White House spokesperson called the ads “educational and unapologetically patriotic.” DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin has not commented on the specific funding source. The administration cited historic PSAs from previous administrations as precedent, arguing the ads do not solicit votes or promote a specific program.
Criticism & Opposition
Bipartisan lawmakers have condemned the campaign as an illegal use of appropriated funds. Democratic senators Patty Murray and Chris Murphy demanded answers within 48 hours, labeling the ads “political propaganda” funded by taxpayers. Republican senators also voiced concern. Sen. Mike Rounds said he would not have approved such spending; Sen. Thom Tillis likened the approach to Viktor Orbán’s media tactics; Sen. Susan Collins noted the money bypassed normal appropriations safeguards.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We should not have to remind you that using government funding to create or air political ads like the ones that have been running over the last few days is illegal and a shockingly corrupt misuse of taxpayer dollars,” — Sen. Patty Murray
- “It would not have been something that I would have done.” — Sen. Mike Rounds
- “You watch all three ads, they’re sheer propaganda,” — Richard Painter, former White House ethics czar
- “That’s why the administration went around the appropriations process and used an account that was part of the reconciliation bill,” — Sen. Susan Collins
- “I tell you, it feels like Viktor Orbán talking to the Hungarian people.” — Sen. Thom Tillis
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on total ad spend, citing $1.4 million to over $2.5 million. The exact portion of the $20 million used for the three spots remains unclear, as does the identity of the advertising firm—records show a $20 million award to LMD Agency on Sept. 20, but the contract’s scope is undisclosed. No DHS or White House official has confirmed which agency or budget line covered production costs.
What’s Next
Democratic members of the Senate and House Appropriations Committees have sent letters demanding full accounting and have signaled intent to pursue investigations through the GAO, FCC, and Office of Special Counsel. Legal scholars note the ads may violate the federal anti-propaganda statute and the Hatch Act. Congressional oversight hearings are expected before the November midterms, though the Republican-controlled Congress could limit the scope of any inquiry.