Republicans are opening the books, and the numbers are prompting scrutiny.
New campaign finance filings show the Republican National Committee spent tens of thousands of dollars last year on hair and makeup to keep party figures camera ready.
Records reviewed by NOTUS show that between April and November 2025, the RNC spent more than $59,000 on what it labeled “media preparation.” Most of that money went to just two makeup artists.
More than $53,000 was paid to Brittany Goetz, a former Fox News hair and makeup artist who began working with the RNC over the summer. Federal filings do not specify exactly which Republicans received her services. A smaller amount went to Washington based makeup artist Carola Myers, who has worked with politicians from both parties, including Joe Biden and Glenn Youngkin.
Stay up-to-date with the latest news!
Subscribe and start recieving our daily emails.
The spending itself isn’t against the law, nor is it uncommon in politics. What’s getting noticed, though, is the timing, as the looks of top Republicans have become a hot topic among the public.
That includes President Donald Trump, whose hands have repeatedly appeared bruised and covered with thick concealer during public appearances. The marks have been visible for nearly a year and have become fodder for late night television and online commentary.
It also includes White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, whose heavy makeup and pronounced lips have been widely noticed. A Vanity Fair photo recently caused another round of debate after viewers saw what looked like marks on her upper lip.
Leavitt has not confirmed undergoing any cosmetic procedures. The White House has pushed back, accusing Vanity Fair of photographing staff in a misleading way.
Still, the attention has only grown.
Online, a look now dubbed “Republican makeup” has taken off. The style is often described as thick foundation, bold brows, heavy eye makeup, and sharply defined lips.
The trend gained traction after a viral video by liberal creator Suzanne Lambert, who pointed out similarities she noticed among conservative women commenting on her posts. The video has since been viewed millions of times. Closely related is what critics call the “Mar a Lago face,” a look associated with exaggerated fillers, strong contouring, and dramatic features among some MAGA figures.
Even so, Republicans are not alone in spending money on appearance. Democrats have also paid for professional makeup, including expenses tied to former Vice President Kamala Harris.
But the RNC’s spending, combined with all eyes on how Republicans appear on camera, has brought this normally private campaign expense into the spotlight.
Featured image via Political Tribune Gallery
