US President Donald Trump has promised a $5,000 payment to every adult American citizen if Republicans retain control of Congress in the 2026 midterm elections.
Trump made the pledge on Wednesday while addressing the first-ever Republican midterm convention in Dallas, Texas, as the party seeks to maintain its narrow majorities in the House of Representatives and Senate.
“If the Republicans win, you win with us and you get $5,000,” Trump told supporters, describing the proposed payment as the “Trump dividend.”
He said the money would have to be spent within the United States but did not explain how the programme would be funded or whether the payment would be legally possible.
Based on the latest US Census data, the proposal could cost the federal government $1 trillion or more if extended to every adult citizen.
The promise came as Trump urged Republican voters to turn out in large numbers for the midterms, telling them to “pretend” that he himself was on the ballot.
The president has been making a concerted effort to mobilise voters who are less likely to participate in midterm elections, particularly in competitive states and congressional districts.
The Republican convention is focused on issues including reducing the cost of living, increasing incomes, border security and what party leaders describe as protecting American values.
Trump’s speech largely repeated themes from his regular political rallies, including tariffs, inflation, immigration and his administration’s efforts to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.
However, his intervention comes amid concerns over affordability, high energy costs and his political standing, with Democrats hoping those issues will hurt Republican candidates in November.
Republican leaders are nevertheless betting that Trump’s popularity among the party’s core supporters can help drive turnout and limit expected losses.
Texas Republican Senate candidate Ken Paxton also appealed to supporters for votes and financial backing, warning that losing Texas would have wider implications for the Republican movement.
The 2026 midterm elections will determine control of both chambers of Congress.