Senator Kelly Accuses President of Vote-Buying
Senator Mark Kelly, a Democrat from Arizona, criticized President Donald Trump for allegedly trying to buy votes with his proposal to send $5,000 checks to every adult American if Republicans maintain control of Congress after the 2026 midterm elections. Kelly shared his thoughts on CBS News’ Face the Nation, expressing skepticism about the plan.
Trump proposed the $5,000 payment, known as the ‘Trump Dividend’, during the Republican Midterm Convention in September. He later reiterated the offer. Critics highlight concerns about the potential cost, exceeding $1 trillion, and the lack of detailed funding information or legislative plans. Congress would need to approve such a measure.
Controversy Surrounding Cash Payment Programs
The administration has introduced other direct-payment programs, sparking debate. For instance, 21 million Medicare Part B beneficiaries are slated to receive $90 payments this month, and 950,000 ACA enrollees will get $500 refunds. Some accuse the government of using these payments as electoral tools. Meanwhile, Trump’s supporters view the programs as necessary relief measures amidst rising healthcare costs and other economic pressures.
“This is just a payoff, and he’s trying to buy votes,” Kelly stated, questioning the proposal’s timing and terms.
Democrats Offer Alternatives
Senator Kelly, when asked about Democratic alternatives, cited proposed legislation with Senator Chris Van Hollen. It would increase taxes on incomes over $1 million and decrease taxes for middle-income earners. This tiered surtax plan, according to Kelly, would offer sustainable financial relief compared to one-time payments. Additionally, Kelly pointed to reversing tariffs and ending conflict with Iran as ways to lower consumer costs.
Public Opinion on the Proposed Payments
Surveys reveal mixed public opinion on Trump’s proposal. An Economist/YouGov poll found that voters were divided, with 45% opposing the proposed checks and 43% in favor. Moreover, 61% believed Trump wouldn’t fulfill the promise if Congress stayed Republican. In contrast, a broader poll sample showed 48% support for the payments, though only 38% viewed the proposal favorably.
Another poll, the Verasight survey, assessed the electoral implications of the payment promise. It found that 33% of respondents were less likely to vote Republican due to the pledge, while 15% were more likely, and 52% indicated no impact on their voting decision.
Previous ‘Dividends’ and Financial Promises
Trump has suggested other dividends in the past. Recently, he mentioned possible payments for those near new data centers, claiming they would ‘benefit greatly.’ In December 2025, select service members received a ‘warrior dividend’ of $1,776, an initiative Trump cited to support his capability to deliver on similar promises. A proposed DOGE Dividend and a tariff dividend were discussed but remained unimplemented campaign promises.