Trump-Linked PAC Sparks Outrage with Fundraising Email Using Soldier Casket Photo
A political action committee with direct connections to former President Donald Trump has ignited significant controversy by utilizing a photograph of Trump saluting a deceased soldier's casket within a fundraising solicitation. The email, distributed on Thursday and financed by Never Surrender Inc., promotes a new "National Security Briefing Membership" and contains multiple links for donations.
Exploitative Imagery Draws Immediate Condemnation
The message incorporated an official White House image captured by photographer Daniel Torok. It depicted Trump saluting during last week's dignified transfer ceremony at Dover Air Force Base for six U.S. service members killed in an Iranian drone attack in Kuwait. The email text promises recipients "private national security briefings" and "unfiltered updates on the threats facing America."
Government officials and advocacy groups were swift to condemn the tactic on social media platforms. The press office for California Governor Gavin Newsom labeled Trump a "deeply SICK and DISGUSTING MAN," accusing him of fundraising off the deaths of soldiers. Representative Mike Quigley, a Democrat from Illinois, asserted that Trump is "profiting off" the ultimate sacrifice made by service members.
Democratic Senator Andy Kim offered a pointed critique, writing, "I hope the donors' national security briefing doesn't skip the 'Iran will close the Strait of Hormuz' section that Trump and Hegseth missed."Naveed Shah, an Army veteran and political director for the veterans' advocacy organization Common Defense, expressed profound disappointment, stating, "Not a shred of dignity to be found anywhere in this administration."
Pattern of Conflict-Related Fundraising Emerges
This incident is not isolated. Trump-connected fundraising entities have dispatched more than a dozen emails and text messages referencing the Iran conflict since the commencement of U.S.-Israeli strikes. These communications are often crafted to appear as if authored by Trump personally, complete with his signature.
A March 5 message from the Trump Save America Joint Fundraising Committee implored recipients, "Right now, I'm asking everyone who approves of Operation Epic Fury to rally behind me with incredible messages of support." The message provided respondents with three reply options and suggested donations ranging from $26 to $3,300.
Other fundraising emails from Never Surrender have included direct warnings to Iranian forces and claimed heightened importance for maintaining a "MAGA majority" during the midterm elections. One recent message stated, "NOW THAT DEMOCRATS SIDED WITH THE RADICAL REGIME IN IRAN... IT HAS NEVER BEEN MORE IMPORTANT TO HOLD OUR MAGA MAJORITY DURING THE MIDTERMS!"
Mounting Casualties and Unclear Resolution
The human cost of the conflict continues to rise. At least thirteen U.S. service members have been killed since hostilities with Iran began on February 28. According to Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell, a minimum of 140 others were injured during the first ten days of the campaign. Defense officials report that 108 service members have returned to duty, while eight remain classified as "severely injured."
The conflict, now entering its third week, lacks a clear endpoint. When questioned by Fox News host Brian Kilmeade about how he would determine the war's conclusion, Trump offered an ambiguous response: "When I feel it — feel it in my bones."
The White House originally shared the dignified transfer photo with a caption honoring the fallen: "The six fallen warriors represent the very best of America, giving everything in service to our country. Their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten." The stark contrast between this solemn tribute and its subsequent use in political fundraising has fueled the ongoing backlash. The Independent has requested comments from both the White House and Never Surrender Inc., but responses have not yet been provided.
