US President Donald Trump has promised a $5,000 “Trump dividend” for every American adult if Republicans retain control of Congress in November’s midterm elections.
Trump announced the proposal at the Republican Party’s first midterm convention in Dallas, but offered no details on how the payments would be funded or whether they would be legally feasible. With about 270 million US adults, the plan could cost roughly $1.35 trillion.
In a nearly two-hour speech, Trump urged voters to keep Republicans in power and warned that a Democratic victory would put the US in the hands of the “radical left.” He also defended US military action against Iran, saying it was aimed at preventing Tehran from developing nuclear weapons. He predicted the conflict would end shortly after the November elections and said US economic pressure would force Iran to back down.
The convention has highlighted Republicans’ reliance on Trump ahead of the November 3 vote, even as opinion polls show his approval ratings remain weak and voters express growing concern over the cost of living.
Speakers largely focused on attacking Democrats over immigration, transgender issues and alleged socialist policies, while economic concerns and the Iran war received comparatively less attention.
Republicans are seeking to retain control of Congress, but polling suggests Democrats are currently more motivated to vote, increasing the stakes of the midterm elections.
