President Donald Trump proposed a $5,000 payment to every American adult if Republicans retain control of Congress and pledged to refund $500 million in Affordable Care Act overcharges. He also told reporters he would "probably" make deals with Democrats if they secure congressional majorities, despite vowing to block their legislative agenda.
Trump delivered the remarks during a two-day Republican convention in Dallas that began Sept. 9. Vice President JD Vance is set to deliver the keynote address, with Trump scheduled for closing remarks.
On the opening day, Trump spoke for one hour and 45 minutes before an arena with many empty seats. His speech averaged approximately 2.5 million viewers on Fox News, according to the network. Viewership peaked at about 2.8 million around 9:45 p.m. EST, competing directly with an NFL regular season game between the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks on NBC.
Trump's proposal comes as Republicans work to counter Democratic momentum ahead of the midterm elections. The $500 million ACA refund announcement followed on Sept. 10.
Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, expressed support for the $5,000 dividend during an interview with Fox News host Jesse Watters. Cruz said he would back the plan if it were limited to working Americans and structured as a tax refund, adding he "could easily see something like that passing."
Trump indicated willingness to engage with Democrats, stating, "They're going to want some stuff," suggesting potential grounds for negotiation. But he made clear his intent to act as "a block" to their agenda if Democrats gain congressional majorities.
Trump asserted that Democrats were responsible for the "affordability crisis," claiming his administration is "bringing the prices way down." He also predicted that the Iranian regime is delaying a deal to gain leverage for a larger Democratic victory in November, saying the regime would prefer to negotiate with Democrats.
The convention included an emotional tribute marking the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks.
