Donald Trump claims $5,000 dividend checks may not require Congress approval

Donald Trump has stated that his administration may not require Congressional approval to distribute promised $5,000 dividend checks to all adult American citizens. Speaking to CBS News, Trump suggested that while Congressional support would be beneficial, the administration believes the payments could proceed without a formal vote.

Trump’s proposal is predicated on the idea that strong economic performance and high national revenues would fund the initiative. However, the plan faces significant legal and budgetary hurdles. Under the U.S. Constitution, Congress holds the authority to approve federal spending, which may necessitate legislative action. Some Republicans have suggested using the budget reconciliation process to pass the measure without Democratic support.

The initiative has drawn criticism from within the Republican Party. Representative Thomas Massie described the notion that votes could be bought with such payments as ‘insulting’ and expressed concerns regarding potential inflationary pressure. Economists estimate the program would require $1 trillion, with projections from The New York Times suggesting it could increase the federal deficit by $2 trillion and add to the $40 trillion national debt.