Trump Administration Faces Scrutiny Over Taxpayer-Funded TV Ads Amid Music Rights Dispute and Watchdog Complaints

Three taxpayer-funded television advertisements featuring President Trump are under scrutiny from multiple directions. Recording artist Christian Berishaj, who performs as JMSN, issued a cease-and-desist letter demanding the White House stop using his song "Love Me" without permission. Watchdog organization Public Citizen filed regulatory complaints arguing the ads are campaign advertisements that should not use public funds, while Democratic senators questioned the reported diversion of $20 million from the Department of Homeland Security to fund the campaign. The White House has characterized the spots as public service announcements promoting patriotism.