Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr said taxpayer-funded television ads promoting President Donald Trump’s agenda do not merit agency review, backing the White House’s description of them as public service announcements. Trump said the ads are for the country rather than his campaign and offered to repay the money if they are deemed improper. The Department of Homeland Security awarded LMD Agency, Inc. a $20 million contract for the national campaign, while AdImpact estimates $1.7 million has been spent on airings. Public Citizen alleges the spots are unlawful partisan propaganda timed to influence the upcoming midterm elections, and FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez said taxpayer-funded political messaging raises serious concerns. Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer also criticized the use of public money. The campaign includes a spot in which Trump says he wants to defeat communism and another adapted from his 2024 campaign ad calling for a final battle against the deep state.