Trump promises $5,000 to every adult if Republicans win

In a speech at the Republican Party convention in Dallas, President Donald Trump announced a $5,000 “dividend” for every adult United States citizen if Republicans maintain control of the House and the Senate in the midterm elections.

What changed in the political debate

The promise was made while the party already holds both legislative houses, but the payment would require a law approved by Congress. Senator Bernie Moreno (R, Ohio) has already indicated that he will prepare a bill to make the dividend effective.

Costs and impacts on the federal budget

With about 245 million adults, the proposal would cost more than $1.2 trillion. The federal budget has already recorded a deficit of nearly $1.8 trillion in 2025 and a debt exceeding $40 trillion. Experts warn that the payment could widen the deficit and increase inflationary pressures.

Funding source questioned

Vice President J.D. Vance suggested that tariff revenues could fund part of the payments. In 2026, the gross revenue from tariffs and excise taxes totaled about $210 billion, equivalent to just $857 per citizen, which is insufficient to cover the proposed amount.

Previous experiences with universal payments

Trump has already promised tariff dividends and 20% of savings in DOGE, but none of these payments have been made. The 2020 and 2021 stimulus payments were made in times of crisis, when the economy needed support.

Macroeconomic consequences

Experts point out that, with an expanding economy, low unemployment, and high inflation, a $5,000 payment could accelerate inflation and increase public debt. The bond market has already recorded increases in 10-year yields, raising interest rates on consumer loans.

With information from Time Magazine, CBS News, CNN.