- President Donald Trump announced a proposal to pay a $5,000 "Trump Dividend" to every American adult if voters help Republicans keep their congressional majority in the 2026 midterms.
- Speaking at the Republican midterm convention in Texas, Trump said the checks would be funded by economic growth and tariffs, and must be spent within the United States.
- Critics and commentators quickly accused Trump of attempting to bribe voters, pointing out that such a plan would cost over $1 trillion.
- The proposal joins a list of previous unfulfilled payment promises made by Trump, including coverage for IVF costs and returns on DOGE program savings.
- Direct federal payments have occurred previously during the COVID-19 pandemic, though Trump allies like Elon Musk have also faced past scrutiny over voter sweepstakes schemes.
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