Trump doubles down on $5,000 pledge

At a North Carolina rally, President Trump promised Americans $5,000 if Republicans win the midterms. "If we win, we're going to get you $5,000," he said.

“If we win, we're going to get you $5,000. So that's it. Very simple.”

GOP candidates largely ignore the idea

Republican candidates at the rally said nothing about the pledge. A week after Trump unveiled it at the party convention in Dallas, there's little evidence candidates in competitive races have incorporated it into their campaigns.

RNC wants candidates on board

The Republican National Committee says the $5,000 pledge is part of Trump's broader economic vision and encourages all candidates to run on it. A spokesperson said candidates should support efforts to put more money in Americans' pockets.

Critics say it's unaffordable

The pledge could cost over $1 trillion with no clear funding source. Trump previously suggested using savings from a government efficiency department and tariff revenue, but neither materialized. House Speaker Mike Johnson said congressional approval would be needed.

Republicans worry about inflation

Republican strategist Doug Heye called it "a dumb idea" with no way to pay for it that would spike inflation. Democrats point to Trump's previous unfulfilled payout promises to raise skepticism about the new pledge.

“It's a dumb idea. There's no way to pay for it and it would spike inflation.”

Candidates focus on other issues

Republican campaign advertising has largely focused on the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which includes tax cuts on tips and overtime. Other candidates are concentrating on local issues or attacks against opponents instead.