US President Donald Trump has announced a 'warrior dividend' payment to US service members, in a speech where he also defended his track record on the economy after 11 months back in office. In a televised address to the nation, Trump declared that cheques for $1,776 (£1,329) for 1.45 million US service members were 'already on the way' and should arrive before Christmas. He stated these funds would be financed partly by his tariffs.
In the combative address, Trump touted achievements on immigration while criticizing opposition Democrats. Speaking quickly and assertively, he aimed to persuade Americans that the country is thriving and will continue improving.
Trump claimed that prices were falling, a claim contested by many Americans who express discontent over housing, childcare, and healthcare costs. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer responded to Trump's speech, calling it a representation of the president's disconnection from the realities faced by ordinary citizens.
In the brief address, which lasted 18 minutes, Trump mentioned the 'warrior dividend', totaling $2.57bn (£1.9bn), as a tribute to the nation's founding in 1776. He noted that the finances come from his tariffs and the 'One Big, Beautiful Bill' enacted on the Fourth of July.
'Nobody deserves it more than our military,' Trump stated, but opinions varied regarding his assertions. Critics pointed out that many of his claims were either exaggerated or unfounded.
The focus of the address also included his economic record and the administration's response to rising prices, which he attributed to the policies of former President Joe Biden. While some prices, notably for fuel and eggs, have decreased, many other food costs remain high, contributing to public dissatisfaction.
Polling indicates widespread concern about the economy, with half of voters viewing the cost of living as the highest they've ever experienced. Trump's handling of economic issues has become a significant vulnerability for him and his party as the midterm elections approach.
As the political landscape shifts, the Trump administration grapples with how to alleviate voter concerns about the economy while countering Democratic critiques regarding rising prices. Amid these challenges, Trump remains dedicated to showcasing a vision of improvement coinciding with the upcoming 250th anniversary celebrations of America’s founding.
In the combative address, Trump touted achievements on immigration while criticizing opposition Democrats. Speaking quickly and assertively, he aimed to persuade Americans that the country is thriving and will continue improving.
Trump claimed that prices were falling, a claim contested by many Americans who express discontent over housing, childcare, and healthcare costs. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer responded to Trump's speech, calling it a representation of the president's disconnection from the realities faced by ordinary citizens.
In the brief address, which lasted 18 minutes, Trump mentioned the 'warrior dividend', totaling $2.57bn (£1.9bn), as a tribute to the nation's founding in 1776. He noted that the finances come from his tariffs and the 'One Big, Beautiful Bill' enacted on the Fourth of July.
'Nobody deserves it more than our military,' Trump stated, but opinions varied regarding his assertions. Critics pointed out that many of his claims were either exaggerated or unfounded.
The focus of the address also included his economic record and the administration's response to rising prices, which he attributed to the policies of former President Joe Biden. While some prices, notably for fuel and eggs, have decreased, many other food costs remain high, contributing to public dissatisfaction.
Polling indicates widespread concern about the economy, with half of voters viewing the cost of living as the highest they've ever experienced. Trump's handling of economic issues has become a significant vulnerability for him and his party as the midterm elections approach.
As the political landscape shifts, the Trump administration grapples with how to alleviate voter concerns about the economy while countering Democratic critiques regarding rising prices. Amid these challenges, Trump remains dedicated to showcasing a vision of improvement coinciding with the upcoming 250th anniversary celebrations of America’s founding.
