Politics
Trump Proposes $2,000 Stimulus Checks Amid Speculation
WASHINGTON – Speculation is swirling about the possibility of new stimulus checks for Americans as President Donald Trump suggests a $2,000 payment. However, Congress has not yet approved any legislation to authorize such payments.
The last round of economic impact payments came in 2021, and any new federal payments would require legislative action. Earlier this year, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced it would issue automatic payments to eligible individuals who did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit, offering up to $1,400 per person. These payments were expected to reach eligible taxpayers between December 2024 and January 2025.
During a recent Truth Social post, Trump proposed that $2,000 would be paid to every American who is not classified as a high-income earner. He defended his position, claiming that the U.S. economy is strong, with low inflation and record stock market gains. He also indicated that leftover tariff revenue would help reduce the national debt, currently at $37 trillion.
NOTUS reporter Violet Jira provided insight into the odds of these tariff dividends becoming reality. She mentioned that during a recent press briefing, a White House spokesperson confirmed the administration’s commitment to sending checks, particularly targeting middle- to lower-income individuals. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent reinforced that family income totals up to $100,000 would qualify.
Jira expressed caution, saying, “Details are emerging, but whether this actually happens is hard to tell.” Various factors continue to raise skepticism among experts regarding the feasibility of direct payments.
Law enforcement agencies in Northern Virginia are warning residents about potential scams related to stimulus checks as faulty online claims circulate, suggesting amounts like $1,702 or $1,390. Many of these claims are connected to state-level programs or outright fraud.
The IRS has also cautioned the public against fake messages that could lead to identity theft. They advise taxpayers to verify outreach directly from official IRS channels.
As discussions continue regarding potential stimulus payments, financial analysts urge that Congress would need to approve any stimulus checks, particularly given the ongoing partisan conflicts. With the midterm elections approaching, analysts suggest that public sentiment may influence the likelihood of new federal financial relief.
