United States President Donald Trump says he will stop using taxpayer funds to pay for television advertisements promoting his administration and policies, following bipartisan criticism over the spending.
Trump announced the decision in a social media post on Monday, saying he would personally fund the advertisements or use money raised through his MAGA Incorporated super political action committee.
The president described the advertisements as “patriotic ads” and said he considered them a positive promotion of the United States.
The advertisements, which praise Trump and highlight policies including tax cuts, domestic manufacturing and law and order, have faced criticism and questions over their legality.
Critics have argued that the use of government funds for advertisements promoting the president could conflict with laws restricting the use of taxpayer money for political purposes.
More than a dozen such advertisements have reportedly been aired in recent weeks, with some also targeting groups and individuals Trump considers opponents.
Trump said he had decided to take responsibility for funding the advertisements himself following the controversy.
