US President Donald Trump has promised to pay $5,000 to every adult American if Republicans retain control of both chambers of Congress in the upcoming midterm elections.
Trump made the pledge on Wednesday while addressing a Republican midterm convention in Dallas, Texas, where he described the proposed payment as a dividend linked to what he called the country’s economic strength and revenue from tariffs.
“If the Republicans win, you win with us, and you get $5,000,” Trump said.
He said the proposed payment would be known as the “Trump Dividend” and would have to be spent within the United States.
“The only caveat I have is that the dividend that we’re making must be spent in the United States of America,” Trump said, adding that recipients would not be allowed to use the money to purchase goods or services from countries such as Canada, China or Germany.
Trump likened the proposed payment to dividends issued by companies to shareholders when they record strong financial performance.
The president did not provide details on how the programme would be funded or how it would be implemented. Reports indicate that distributing $5,000 to every adult American could cost more than $1 trillion, raising questions about the proposal’s financial feasibility and the need for congressional approval.
Trump also highlighted his administration’s “Trump Accounts” programme, which provides $1,000 for eligible children. He praised the Michael and Susan Dell Foundation for pledging $6.25 billion toward the programme.
Republicans currently control both chambers of Congress, while Democrats remain in the minority. Americans are expected to vote in November to elect members of the House of Representatives and the Senate.
Trump’s pledge comes as Republicans seek to maintain their congressional majority in the midterm elections.
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