Trump Fundraising Email Uses Soldiers' Dignified Transfer Photo

The email promises 'private national security briefings' for donors.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 9:18pm

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A fundraising email from former President Donald Trump's political action committee used an official White House photo from a dignified transfer ceremony honoring fallen U.S. soldiers to promote a 'National Security Briefing Membership' that promises access to Trump's 'private national security briefings.' The email has drawn criticism from some Democrats for using the solemn military tradition to solicit donations.

Why it matters

Dignified transfers are a sacred military tradition to honor fallen service members, and using such imagery for political fundraising purposes has been seen by some as inappropriate and disrespectful. The email also raises questions about Trump's continued involvement in national security matters and whether he is offering donors special access to information.

The details

The fundraising email, sent by Never Surrender, Inc., a pro-Trump PAC, includes an official White House photo showing Trump saluting during a dignified transfer ceremony at Dover Air Force Base. The email promotes a 'National Security Briefing Membership' that promises donors 'private national security briefings' and 'unfiltered updates on the threats facing America' from Trump himself.

  • The fundraising email was sent on March 13, 2026.
  • The dignified transfer ceremony depicted in the photo took place on March 11, 2026.

The players

Donald Trump

Former U.S. President whose political action committee sent the fundraising email.

Never Surrender, Inc.

A pro-Trump political action committee that sent the fundraising email.

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What they’re saying

“I hope the donors' national security briefing doesn't skip the 'Iran will close the Strait of Hormuz' section that Trump and Hegseth missed.”

— Sen. Andy Kim, U.S. Senator from New Jersey

“Donald Trump is fundraising off of dead soldiers. He is a deeply SICK and DISGUSTING MAN!”

— Gavin Newsom's Press Office, California Governor

What’s next

The White House and Republican National Committee have not yet responded to requests for comment on the fundraising email.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the continued controversy surrounding Trump's political activities and his willingness to use sensitive military imagery for partisan fundraising purposes, which many see as a violation of the solemn nature of dignified transfer ceremonies.