At the Republican National Convention in Texas, U.S. President Trump proposed paying $5,000 to adult Americans if his party succeeds in the midterm elections. He said Republicans would need to win elections for both the House of Representatives and the Senate for the promise to be fulfilled.
Trump compared the proposed payment to the distributions that companies make to their shareholders. He presented the plan as a payment commitment tied to the Republicans’ electoral success.
Estimated cost of $1.2 trillion
The fact that the United States has approximately 245 million adults has led to estimates that the promise could cost a total of $1.2 trillion. Media organizations opposed to Trump’s policies argued that the measure could widen the budget deficit and harm the economy.
Some analysts also said that the idea of making direct payments to voters could be considered electoral bribery and lead to legal debates.
Different assessments in the media and on social media
Reactions to the plan varied along political lines. Liberal media outlets criticized the proposal by focusing on its financial consequences, while conservative media organizations welcomed the promise.
Some social media users argued that the measure was unrealistic and illegal. Others said that, if made, the payments would provide a significant economic contribution to average Americans.
Republican National Convention schedule
National party conventions in the United States are traditionally held in years when presidential elections take place. These conventions are important because they are where parties officially announce their presidential nominees.
Following Trump’s call in June, it was decided that the Republican National Convention would convene before the midterm elections. Trump said the convention played an important role in uniting the Republican base.
