Former President Donald Trump proposed giving Americans $2,000 “dividend” payments funded by tariff revenue, promoting the idea on social media as a direct public benefit. The announcement generated questions about how the plan would work, but the White House signaled strong support.

Press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump remained committed, though details on eligibility and distribution were unclear. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent struck a more cautious tone, suggesting the benefit might come through tax reductions rather than direct checks. He also noted he had not discussed the plan with Trump. Analysts estimated that if eligibility resembled past stimulus programs, costs could approach $300 billion, far exceeding current tariff revenue and potentially relying on projected future funds.