Analysis: Trump stirs new storm by posing as strongman in taxpayer-funded video

A new controversy surrounds a 30-second video shown during NFL broadcasts Sunday that portrays Donald Trump as an uncompromising “strongman” in monochrome while voicing vows of a “final battle” against communists, the “deep state,” and “fake news” media. The most striking element is its tagline: “Paid for by the U.S. Government,” raising questions about whether taxpayer money is being used for overtly political messaging. The White House says it is a public service announcement. Democrats warn it echoes other taxpayer-funded videos and have pushed ethics complaints, including one filed by Public Citizen. Republican Sen. John Kennedy argued no official should spend public money on “private ads.” The timing is five weeks before congressional elections.