Trump Proposes $2,000 Direct Payment to Most US Citizens, Funded by Increased Customs Revenue
WASHINGTON D.C. – Former President Donald Trump announced plans to distribute a $2,000 dividend to qualifying U.S.citizens, excluding high-income earners, financed by a surge in American customs revenue. The proposed payment, equivalent to approximately €1729, marks a revival of an idea Trump previously floated months ago.
The announcement arrives following recent Democratic victories in key gubernatorial and mayoral races – including New York City – prompting criticism from within Republican circles that Trump had insufficiently focused on bolstering support among his base.During his prior presidential campaign, Trump pledged to address the rising cost of living, and this proposal is being framed as a fulfillment of that commitment.
Trump detailed the plan in a post on his Truth Social platform, stating, “We are the richest, most respected country in the world with almost no inflation and a stock market at record highs.” Current U.S.inflation stands around 3 percent.
The financial basis for the proposed dividend stems from a meaningful increase in U.S. customs revenue since Trump’s inauguration in January. Fiscal year 2023 concluded in September with $195 billion collected in tariffs – a $118 billion increase compared to the previous year.
Though, the plan’s feasibility hinges on income limitations. Calculations estimate that a $100,000 income cap would qualify roughly 150 million adults for the $2,000 payment, resulting in an estimated cost of $300 billion. Including children would substantially increase the overall financial burden. The specifics of income thresholds and implementation remain to be detailed.
