In a bold campaign move, US President Donald Trump has vowed to distribute $5,000 to every adult American if Republicans maintain their majorities in both the House of Representatives and the Senate following the upcoming midterm elections. This promise was made during his speech at the Republican midterm convention in Dallas, where he emphasized the importance of backing Republican candidates by urging the audience to “pretend that I’m on the ballot.”
The potential cost of these payments is estimated to exceed $1 trillion, sparking concerns about the feasibility of funding such a plan and its legal viability. During his address, Trump highlighted the achievements of his administration’s second term and cautioned that a Democratic win could endanger his policies on key issues such as immigration, taxes, national security, and economic growth.
Amidst his domestic pledges, Trump also addressed international tensions, specifically with Iran, warning against further provocations while recognizing the economic implications of rising oil prices on the US economy. His speech comes at a time when the Republican Party is leveraging the convention to galvanize its base ahead of the elections, which are being contested in a challenging political climate.
The two-day convention has showcased a lineup of Republican candidates, senior party officials, and notable supporters, all rallying around central themes such as border security, economic costs, public safety, and advocacy for American workers. The event has also seen speakers launching criticisms at Democrats over various cultural and social issues. Trump, who remains a pivotal figure in the campaign despite debates over his popularity and the competitiveness of key races, is slated to deliver another address at the convention, promising a more concise speech.