Trump pledges $5,000 to every American adult if Republicans retain control of Congress

President Donald Trump on Wednesday promised to give every adult American $5,000 if Republicans retain control of Congress in the November midterm elections, while urging his supporters to act as though he himself were on the ballot.

“If the Republicans win, you win with us and you get $5,000. It will be called the Trump dividend,” Trump told the Republican midterm convention in Dallas, as polls show Democrats gaining an advantage.

Trump did not explain how the payments would be funded, with the total cost potentially exceeding $1 trillion. He only said that “our country is making so much money.”

Seeking to rally voters behind Republican candidates, Trump urged his supporters to “pretend” that he was running in the election.

“I’m on the ballot, I’m on the ballot — just one more time,” he told the crowd.

Trump’s approval ratings remain in the low 30s, while voters have expressed growing concern over high prices and the war with Iran. Decision Desk HQ projects Democrats could win the House 230-205 and take control of the Senate with a 51-49 majority.

Trump defends Iran war

Trump strongly defended the unpopular war with Iran, predicting victory and linking it to falling oil prices. He also suggested that the strategically important Strait of Hormuz should be renamed after him.

“Food prices and almost every other item are rapidly going down. And by the way, oil will be going down as soon as we win the war with Iran, which is taking place right now,” Trump said.

He also echoed Republican warnings about what he described as a growing threat of communism in the United States.

“It’s going to be a communist country if they win,” Trump said, urging voters to determine whether the country “stumbles at the starting gate of the next 250 years or surges forward.”

Trump is scheduled to return for the convention’s finale on Thursday, following a keynote address by Vice President JD Vance. Cabinet officials, congressional leaders and candidates in closely contested House and Senate races are also expected to speak.

The Republican strategy centers on whether Trump can mobilise his loyal supporters despite not being a candidate, while avoiding further alienating independent voters who have become dissatisfied with his presidency.

Political headwinds

There was little visible concern among Republicans inside the American Airlines Center despite the difficult polling environment.

The convention featured a video address from Democratic Senator John Fetterman, who has increasingly clashed with his party’s progressive wing, particularly over Israel.

Republicans highlighted tax cuts, immigration enforcement, increased manufacturing and lower prescription drug prices as key achievements.

The arena was decorated with Trump posters, while supporters wore sequined jackets featuring his name, image and the American flag. Merchandise stands sold T-shirts, mugs, posters and copies of Eric Trump’s latest book, Under Siege.

Despite the political challenges, the atmosphere remained festive, with “USA! USA!” chants echoing through the venue as the national anthem opened the programme.

The gathering marks the first Republican national convention specifically organised for a midterm election. No candidates are being nominated and no formal party business is scheduled; instead, organisers have turned the two-night event into a televised rally promoting Trump’s record and Republican candidates.

More than 100 House members and candidates were expected to attend, with over 50 speakers and presentations scheduled across the two nights.