Donald Trump Proposes $5,000 'Trump Dividend' to Boost Republicans in Midterm Elections

President Donald Trump concluded the first day of his Republican Party's midterm convention in Dallas by pitching a $5,000 "Trump dividend" for every US adult, provided his party secures a victory in November's congressional elections.

During a prime-time address lasting nearly two hours, Mr Trump placed himself firmly at the center of the campaign as he attempts to offset sagging approval ratings that could threaten Republicans' electoral prospects. Vice President JD Vance is scheduled to deliver a keynote address on Thursday night, with Mr Trump returning to close the two-day event.

With Mr Trump constitutionally barred from seeking a third term, Mr Vance's upcoming speech is widely viewed as an early audition for the 2028 presidential election. Details regarding the mechanics or legality of the proposed $5,000 payments remain unclear. The initiative would carry a price tag exceeding $1 trillion for roughly 270 million US adults and would necessitate congressional approval.

The convention's heavy focus on Mr Trump—privately termed "Trumpapalooza" by some Republicans—represents a high-stakes gamble to energize the base despite polls indicating his popularity has reached an all-time low. "I'm asking you to pretend that I'm on the ballot," Mr Trump told supporters.

Republican efforts received unexpected reinforcement when Democratic US Senator John Fertalman appeared in a pre-taped video introducing his "great friend," Republican Senator Dave McCormick of Pennsylvania. Meanwhile, several vulnerable Republicans facing challenging reelection bids, including Senator Dan Sullivan of Alaska and Senator Susan Collins of Maine, chose to bypass the convention.