Trump pledges $5,000 cash dividend to adults if Republicans keep Congress
President Trump offered a $5,000 payment to every adult American contingent on Republican victories in the November midterms, while the party convened its first midterm convention in Dallas.
President Donald Trump told attendees at the Republican midterm convention in Dallas that his party would issue a $5,000 cash payment to every adult American if Republicans retain control of both the House and the Senate in November. "If the Republicans win, you win with us," he said, adding that the payout would be called the "Trump dividend."
Trump acknowledged the uncertainty of the outcome, noting, "We might not win." The proposal would cost more than $1 trillion, and experts note that paying citizens to influence voting would violate election law.
During an hour-and-44-minute rally-style address, Trump defended the war in Iran, criticized a Senate candidate’s fashion choices, and labeled Democrats as "communist" and "extremist." He urged Republicans to turn out in the midterms, saying, "Please pretend that I'm running. If we don't have the majorities, so much can be lost."
The two-night event, organized by Trump, featured speeches from Republican lawmakers, candidates and supporters, and concluded with a tribute to activist Charlie Kirk and a remembrance of the September 11th attacks. Vice President Mike Pence is scheduled to share the final hour of the convention with Trump.
Among the speakers, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, a Senate candidate, asked for prayers, votes and financial support, while his Democratic opponent, Rep. James Talarico, holds a cash advantage. Trump’s Super PAC, MAGA Inc., has pledged $10 million to support Paxton. Trump defended Paxton despite personal criticisms, stating, "Some may not like the way he dresses. I don't."