A Promise of $2,000 Per Person

In one of the more surprising claims of his online tirade, Trump announced plans for what he described as a “dividend” of at least $2,000 per American citizen — excluding high-income individuals. He argued that the payments would be made possible through the supposed massive revenue generated from tariffs on imported goods.

According to Trump, the United States is experiencing an economic boom driven by his tariff policies. He boasted that the nation is “taking in trillions of dollars” and claimed this surge in revenue would allow the government to begin paying off the national debt, which he noted stands at an enormous $37 trillion.

Claiming Record Stock Market and 401(k)s

The president also pointed to what he called “record highs” in the stock market and retirement accounts. “401(k)’s are highest ever,” Trump wrote, portraying himself as the architect of a prosperous financial environment. He added that these gains were evidence that tariffs had strengthened, rather than hurt, the economy.

In his usual confrontational style, Trump didn’t hold back against his critics. “People that are against Tariffs are FOOLS!” he wrote, using all caps to emphasize his frustration with economists and lawmakers who have warned that tariffs can raise prices for consumers and spark trade wars.

Trump’s “Trillions” Claim

Trump further insisted that the U.S. is “taking in trillions of dollars” from foreign nations due to his tariffs. Economists, however, have long pointed out that tariffs are paid by importers often American companies and that the costs can trickle down to consumers through higher prices.

The $37 Trillion Debt Promise

Addressing one of the nation’s most persistent challenges, Trump vowed to begin paying down the $37 trillion national debt using tariff revenues. He painted an image of a self-funded recovery, claiming that the U.S. would soon “pay down our enormous debt” without the need for higher taxes.

Factories and Investments “All Over the Place”

Trump’s post also celebrated what he described as “record investment” in American manufacturing. He said “plants and factories [are] going up all over the place,” suggesting that his economic policies have led to a manufacturing resurgence. Independent reports, however, show mixed results for U.S. factory growth in recent years.

Boasting of Respect and Power

Echoing his familiar campaign themes, Trump proclaimed that under his leadership, the U.S. had become “the richest, most respected country in the world.” He linked this renewed global respect to his economic and trade policies, crediting tariffs as the foundation of American strength.

A Populist Pitch to the Public

The $2,000 “dividend” promise marks a new populist twist in Trump’s economic rhetoric. By proposing direct cash payments, he appeared to be positioning tariffs not only as a trade weapon but as a source of wealth redistribution aimed at helping working-class Americans.

Echoes of Previous Stimulus Promises

This isn’t the first time Trump has floated the idea of direct payments to Americans. During his first term, his administration approved stimulus checks amid the pandemic. However, linking new payments directly to tariff revenue represents an untested — and highly controversial concept.

Critics Warn of Economic Risks

While Trump’s supporters praised his post as a show of bold leadership, critics quickly pointed out the economic risks. Many experts warn that tariffs can backfire by driving up prices and reducing global trade, making the idea of funding national dividends through tariff income both unrealistic and economically unstable.

A Familiar Trump Strategy

Ultimately, Trump’s latest online rant fits a familiar pattern — blending populist promises, nationalist rhetoric, and personal attacks on critics. His message may resonate with his base, but it also underscores how deeply his economic worldview differs from traditional Republican orthodoxy and mainstream economic theory.