US citizens will receive $5,000 if Republicans win midterms, Trump claims in lengthy convention speech
President makes offer that would cost US over $1tn and asks voters to ‘pretend that I’m on the ballot’ despite being deeply unpopular among electorate
TL;DR
- Donald Trump pledged to pay every adult US citizen $5,000 if Republicans win the midterm elections.
- This proposal would cost over $1tn and has raised ethical concerns.
- Trump urged voters to 'pretend that I'm on the ballot' during his speech.
- The Republican midterm convention, the first ever held by the GOP, aimed to buoy the party's prospects.
- Many vulnerable Republican politicians avoided the event due to Trump's unpopularity (around 38% approval rating).
- Trump attacked Democrats, mocking opponents and accusing them of promoting communism.
- He also referenced the war in Iran, warning Tehran against aggression.
- The convention appeared less enthusiastic than previous events, with visible empty seats.
- Speakers included Trump loyalists and candidates, with an emphasis on culture war issues.
- Trump stated he would speak again on Thursday for a briefer address.