US President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that he would distribute $5,000 to every American adult should Republicans maintain their hold on Congress in the November elections. Speaking at the Republican midterm convention in Dallas, the president urged his base to support the party as if he were personally running for office.
“If the Republicans win, you win with us and you get $5,000. It will be called the Trump dividend,” Trump declared to the assembled crowd, acknowledging the party’s struggles in recent polling against Democratic opponents.
The proposal would represent an extraordinary fiscal commitment, with estimates suggesting the total cost could exceed $1 trillion. However, Trump did not outline a specific funding mechanism, stating only that “our country is making so much money.”
As polling data indicates low approval ratings for the president and projections favoring Democratic gains in both the House and Senate, Trump doubled down on his belief in his ability to mobilize voters. “I’m asking you to pretend that I’m on the ballot,” he told supporters. “I’m on the ballot, I’m on the ballot– just one more time,” he added.
Trump also used the platform to defend his administration’s military actions against Iran, predicting that victory would lead to reduced oil prices. He further suggested renaming the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz after himself. Linking the conflict to domestic economic benefits, he claimed that food prices and other costs were rapidly decreasing and would drop further upon success in the war.
The president framed the upcoming election as an existential struggle, echoing concerns about the rise of “communism” in the United States. “It’s going to be a communist country if they win,” he warned. “Your vote will decide whether our country stumbles at the starting gate of the next 250 years or surges forward and never ever looks back,” he said.
The atmosphere inside the American Airlines Center was notably upbeat despite the challenging political landscape for Republicans. The event featured tax cut achievements, immigration enforcement records, and manufacturing growth highlights. Democratic Senator John Fetterman also delivered a video address, highlighting his growing friction with the progressive wing of his party over issues such as Israel policy.
Attendees enjoyed a festive environment complete with Trump-themed merchandise, food vendors, and decor. Tracey Wroblski, a local supporter, described Trump’s message as inspiring and pointed, telling AFP, “We’re not going to communism. We’re staying Republican, thank you very much.”
This gathering marks the first Republican national convention dedicated specifically to midterm elections, functioning more as a televised rally than a traditional nominating convention. With Vice President JD Vance scheduled to give a keynote address on Thursday and over 100 House members expected to attend, the party aims to leverage Trump’s charisma to counteract independent voter dissatisfaction.
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