Judge blocks administration's $20 million government-funded ad campaign in DNC lawsuit

The order stays OMB's apportionment of $20 million for a national media campaign and directs the agencies to stop distribution of the ads, including through third parties, according to the ruling. It lasts 14 days unless extended, and the government must report on compliance by Oct. 30. The DNC alleges the spending violates federal appropriations law; AliKhan wrote that using public funds for the ads imposes competitive harm on the party.

A federal judge in New York had already paused the ads in a separate case brought by Common Cause, so the new order has little immediate practical effect, AP reported. A White House official called the ruling "moot" and said the ads are now paid for by outside groups, The Washington Sun reported.

Why it matters: The case tests the limits on how the executive branch can use appropriated funds for public messaging in the final week before the Nov. 3 midterm elections.