(Washington D.C.) In response to a recent report highlighting that Washington allocates over $1.8 billion each year on “advertising,” alongside additional millions for mascots, trinkets, and other promotional items, U.S. Senate DOGE Caucus Chair Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) is proposing the Stop Wasteful Advertising by the Government (SWAG) Act.
This legislation aims to end unnecessary spending on government propaganda and taxpayer-funded giveaways. Senator Ernst uncovered instances of taxpayer dollars being used for bizarre bug mascots by the Department of Agriculture, graphic novels distributed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and even coloring books featuring bird-watching ICE agents at the Department of Homeland Security.
“You could easily mistake Washington for an over-the-top children’s birthday party, with federal employees dressing up as mascots and distributing coloring books,” Ernst stated. “I’m determined to put an end to this expensive circus. Government officials need to stop squandering taxpayer money trying to repair their tarnished reputations and instead work on serving the American public.” In the House of Representatives, Congressman Michael Cloud (R-Texas) is introducing a companion bill. “The American public deserves a better return on their investment in the federal government than wasted funds on frivolous self-promotion and propaganda,” Cloud remarked. “They want transparency and fiscal prudence, especially during times when families are struggling to make ends meet. DC agencies should not fritter away taxpayer dollars on mascots, trinkets, and giveaways. The SWAG Act will help ensure that taxpayer money is not wasted on these extravagant gimmicks.”
