Trump Eyes $2,000 Checks for Millions of Americans
President Trump could soon propose a bold plan to put $2,000 into the hands of millions of Americans, funded by tariff revenue.
National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett revealed that the White House is exploring a proposal to send out substantial rebate checks using tariffs collected during Trump’s presidency. First floated in July, the idea has gained momentum as the administration highlights economic gains from its trade policies.
Congressional Approval Remains Key
Speaking on CBS’s Face the Nation, Hassett said, “I would expect that in the new year, the president will bring forth a proposal to Congress to make that happen.”
While the plan could prove popular, Hassett emphasized that Congress has the final say.
“It could come from tariff revenue, but in the end, we get taxes, tariffs, revenue from many sources. Then Congress decides how to spend that money,” he said. “This would require an appropriation.”
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent previously noted that the checks would likely target households earning less than $100,000. Hassett confirmed that lawmakers would need to authorize the payments via new legislation, probably delivered through the tax code.
“We’ve had a couple of quarters of almost 4% growth, a government surplus running for months, and a deficit down $600 billion from last year,” Hassett said. “Earlier, I wasn’t sure there was room for a check like this. Now, I’m pretty sure there is.”
Not everyone is on board. Senator Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) warned that the country “can’t afford” such a proposal.
Tariffs as a Financial Tool
Trump has long touted tariffs as a tool to boost U.S. industry and generate government revenue. So far, the numbers support that claim. Through the first three quarters of the year, the Treasury collected $195 billion in tariff duties.
However, the cost has been significant. By November, the average effective tariff rate reached 16.8%, the highest since 1934, up 14.4 points since January, according to the Yale Budget Lab.
Despite this, Hassett highlighted both successes and challenges.
“There’s a lot to crow about in the tariff space,” he said. “But we also hear from trading partners and companies that some adjustments may be needed.”
Hassett noted that exemptions might be considered for items not produced in the U.S., citing climate and practical factors. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer reportedly leads that review.
Hawley’s $600 Rebate Plan Adds Pressure
As Trump’s $2,000 proposal gains attention, Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) introduced a $600 rebate plan in July. Under his plan, a family of four could receive $2,400.
Trump amplified the idea last month, posting online:
“A dividend of at least $2,000 a person (not including high-income people!) will be paid to everyone.”
Hassett argued the tariffs underpin the economic gains, including robust growth, reduced imports from China, and a shrinking trade deficit.
Supreme Court Oversight
The administration is closely monitoring the Supreme Court, which is reviewing whether the president has the authority to impose such tariffs under federal emergency powers. Hassett expressed confidence:
