Trump promises $5,000 to voters

At a North Carolina rally, President Trump pledged to give Americans $5,000 if Republicans win the midterms. He called it simple and straightforward.

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

GOP candidates stay silent on pledge

Republican candidates at Trump's rally said nothing about the $5,000 promise. A week after Trump unveiled it at the party convention in Dallas, few candidates have incorporated it into their campaigns.

Party leadership pushes candidates

The Republican National Committee says candidates should campaign on Trump's economic agenda, including the $5,000 pledge. But the promise rarely appears in TV ads and usually only comes up when reporters ask.

“Of course we encourage all Republican candidates to run on his agenda, and that includes efforts to put more money in the pockets of the American people.”

Funding plan remains unclear

Trump previously suggested using savings from a government efficiency department and tariff revenue to pay for the pledge. But House Speaker Mike Johnson said congressional approval would be needed, contradicting Trump's claim.

Strategists call it unworkable

Republican strategist Doug Heye said the pledge is a bad idea with no way to pay for it and would spike inflation. Most candidates are focusing on other issues like tax cuts on tips instead.

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

Democrats highlight broken promises

Democrats point out Trump previously promised $2,000 payments that never materialized. They call the $5,000 pledge a recycled broken promise voters won't believe.

“This idea is nothing more than a recycled broken promise that voters know Republicans will never deliver.”