A source familiar with the matter told CNN that President Donald Trump personally oversaw the creation of televised spots using public money to promote his image, including the selection of specific imagery and videos. The administration has expanded the use of these advertisements by repurposing campaign rhetoric and footage for national broadcasts on Fox News and the NFL, despite federal laws prohibiting the use of taxpayer funds for publicity or propaganda.

The government has spent more than $1 million on the promotion, according to the New York Times, triggering criticism from both parties. Republican Senator Thom Tillis compared the messaging to that of Viktor Orbán in Hungary, while Senate Majority Leader John Thune stated that taxpayers should not foot the bill for the spots. The watchdog group Democracy Forward has filed a formal records request to obtain expenditure invoices and purchase orders associated with the campaign.