U.S. President Donald Trump pledged to pay every adult citizen in the United States $5,000 if Republicans retain control of Congress in the November midterms, during a speech at the Republican National Convention in Dallas. The proposal, which would cost over $1 trillion, was presented as a reward for Republican electoral success, with Trump claiming it would be called the 'Trump dividend.' The claim was made without specifying the source of funding, despite the theoretical cost of the plan.

Trump’s speech, which lasted nearly two hours, was delivered in a convention hall that was not fully occupied, according to Guardian reporters. The president, whose approval rating is around 38%, urged supporters to 'pretend that I’m on the ballot,' despite his unpopularity among many voters. The speech included attacks on Democrats, whom Trump labeled 'radical,' and warnings about the consequences of a Democratic victory, including the loss of 'border security' and 'tax cuts.'

The convention, the first Republican national convention held specifically for a midterm election, featured a mix of speeches from loyalists and candidates, with Trump’s address being the centerpiece. The event also included a video address from Democratic Senator John Fetterman, who has become increasingly at odds with his party’s left wing. The convention highlighted Republican priorities such as tax cuts, immigration enforcement, and lower prescription drug prices, but also included cultural issues, with speakers attacking Democrats on alleged support for transgender rights.

In a statement, Ken Martin, the chair of the Democratic National Committee, accused Republicans of holding a 'bizarre dog-and-pony show' to placate Trump’s 'fragile ego.' Martin’s statement did not directly address the $5,000 proposal but criticized the convention as a distraction from the party’s challenges. The Republicans’ convention featured 12 hours of programming across two nights, with most speakers limited to five minutes, while Trump’s speech was the longest and most anticipated.

The convention took place in an arena that was not fully occupied, with visible empty seats and no long queues for food or bathrooms, according to reports. Despite this, Trump claimed the venue was packed, a claim that was not corroborated by on-site observers. The event also included a surprise introduction for Trump by two UFC fighters, Bo Nickal and Justin Gaethje, who linked Trump’s political career to their own athletic journeys.

Polls suggest that Democrats are likely to retain control of both the House and Senate, with Decision Desk HQ projecting a Democratic victory in the House by 230-205 and a narrow Senate majority of 51-49. Trump’s speech did not address these polls directly, instead focusing on the need for Republican unity and the importance of his personal influence in the election. The convention’s focus on Trump’s legacy and the party’s cultural agenda has raised questions about its effectiveness in mobilizing voters, particularly in a year marked by economic challenges and public discontent with the war in Iran.