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

A 30-second video aired during NFL broadcasts Sunday, featuring Donald Trump as a monochrome “strongman,” has reignited debate over the use of public funds in political messaging. The spot includes the tagline “Paid for by the U.S. Government” and echoes his themes of a “final battle” against communists, the “deep state,” and “fake news.” CNN notes the White House calls it a public service announcement, while Democrats have raised alarms about similar taxpayer-funded videos. Consumer group Public Citizen filed an ethics complaint, and GOP Sen. John Kennedy said no official should spend public money on “private ads” for themselves. The timing is five weeks before congressional elections.