After a recent report estimated that Washington spends more than $1.8 billion annually on “advertising” and millions more on mascots, trinkets, and trash, U.S. Senate DOGE Caucus Chair Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) is introducing the Stop Wasteful Advertising by the Government (SWAG) Act to end unnecessary spending on government propaganda, taxpayer-funded trinkets, and mascots.
Senator Ernst found taxpayer funds being spent on creepy bug mascots for the Department of Agriculture, graphic novels for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), coloring books featuring bird-watching ICE agents at DHS, and much more.
“You might mistake Washington for a very expensive kid’s birthday party, with federal employees playing dress up, appearing as mascots, and making coloring books,” said Ernst. “I am going to crash the party and bag this costly swag. Misbehaving bureaucrats need to stop wasting tax dollars trying to refurbish their bad reputation, and focus on serving the American people.”
Congressman Michael Cloud (R-Texas) is introducing companion legislation in the House of Representatives.
“The American people demand a better return on their investment from the federal government than frivolous spending on self-promotion and propaganda,” said Cloud. “They expect transparency, fiscal responsibility, and a government focused on delivering results. Especially as so many families are working to make ends meet, DC agencies should not squander the People’s money on mascots, trinkets, and giveaways. The SWAG Act will ensure taxpayer dollars are no longer spent on these wasteful gimmicks.”
Click here to view the bill.
