BETHLEHEM, Pennsylvania — In a recent statement, Speaker Mike Johnson supported the initial use of taxpayer money for President Donald Trump’s politically themed advertisements, while expressing approval that future expenses will be covered by Trump’s super PAC, MAGA Inc.

During a campaign event in Pennsylvania, Johnson discussed the nature of the controversial ads, describing the one he saw as more of a public service announcement rather than a direct political plea. "It was talking about America's greatness and the economy coming back, and it wasn't a plea to vote for anybody. It was just — it was pro Americana," Johnson explained to POLITICO.

The decision for the super PAC to take over the ad payments comes after a bipartisan critique and notable dissent within the GOP ranks. One of the vocal critics, Brinker Harding from Nebraska’s 2nd District, insisted that such ads should not be financed with public funds. In response to the growing concern, Trump announced that either he or his aligned super PAC would fund the remaining ads leading up to the midterm elections.

Despite this shift, Johnson sidestepped questions about whether Trump should reimburse the government for the already spent taxpayer money. He pointed out that previous administrations, Democratic ones included, have also produced public service announcements, although Democrats argue that such ads under Trump’s directive violate federal laws against using taxpayer funds for propaganda purposes.

Johnson’s comments came while he was attending a law enforcement event with Rep. Ryan Mackenzie (R-Pa.) in Pennsylvania’s 7th District, a critical battleground in the upcoming elections. He praised Mackenzie’s campaign and highlighted the high stakes and costs involved. Johnson also took the opportunity to criticize potential Democratic control of the House, suggesting it would negatively impact the economy and international relations.

As the midterms draw near, Johnson is on a rigorous campaign schedule, planning stops in seven states over the week, demonstrating the high priority the GOP places on maintaining influence in key districts across the country. His tour underscores the intense political battleground that Pennsylvania and similar states represent in this election cycle.