White House Uses Border Security Funds for Partisan TV Ads Ahead of Midterms

Key points

• Funds from the 2025 'One Big Beautiful Bill Act' designated for CBP were diverted to pay for TV ads.
• Ads feature Trump discussing 'communism,' the 'deep state,' and 'warmongers,' mirroring 2024 campaign rhetoric.
• AdImpact estimates spending at $1.7 million, while Senate Democrats cite figures up to $20 million.
• Public Citizen filed complaints with the FCC and FTC, alleging violations of anti-propaganda laws.
• The White House defends the ads as patriotic public service announcements, not political campaigning.

Background

This controversy follows the 2025 passage of the 'One Big Beautiful Bill Act,' which included funding for border security. Earlier in 2026, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem faced scrutiny for a separate $220 million ad campaign. The current dispute occurs roughly one month before the 2026 midterm elections, a period when political advertising typically intensifies.

How outlets are covering it

NBC News and Axios confirm that the ads were paid for with CBP funds, a fact confirmed by Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Susan Collins. Axios highlights that Trump personally selected the ads, which were produced by the White House digital team. Ars Technica focuses on the legal implications, noting that Public Citizen argues the ads violate federal laws against using taxpayer money for propaganda. While the White House claims these are public service announcements, Senate Majority Leader John Thune and other Republicans criticized the use of taxpayer dollars, despite supporting the message. Democrats labeled the ads as illegal government propaganda. Ars Technica notes that broadcasters are unlikely to refuse the ads due to FCC pressure, despite potential legal liabilities.

Why it matters

The use of federal funds for what critics deem partisan advertising raises significant questions about the separation of government functions and political campaigning. If the ads are deemed illegal, it could set a precedent for future federal election spending. The diversion of funds from border security to political messaging may also impact operational capabilities of CBP and DHS, potentially affecting national security priorities.

What to watch

Public Citizen has filed complaints with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and the Government Accountability Office (GAO). The White House has not responded to requests for comment. Broadcasters are currently airing the ads, with significant placements during NFL and college football games. The legal outcome of these complaints will determine whether the ads must be pulled and if any officials face consequences for the expenditure.