Treasury Secretary Blocks Trump's $2,000 Check Plan, Requires Congressional Vote

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that President Donald Trump's proposal to send $2,000 checks to US citizens from tariff revenue would require congressional approval. Bessent made this comment on Fox News Sunday Morning Futures, emphasizing the need for legislation to implement the plan. The proposal, which Trump has touted as a way to alleviate public frustration over the cost of living, would involve distributing the checks to all but the wealthy. According to Trump, the checks would be funded by the billions of dollars in tariff revenue collected this year. He mentioned that the tariffs would allow the government to provide a "dividend" to the public. However, one estimate suggests that the plan could cost the US government double what it is projected to take in for 2025, which is a concern for some policymakers. The idea of sending $2,000 checks to US citizens is reminiscent of the COVID-19 relief checks distributed during the pandemic. Trump has mentioned that the checks would be part of a broader effort to reduce debt and provide economic relief to Americans. However, the proposal has yet to be formally introduced in Congress, and it is unclear whether lawmakers will support the plan. Some experts have expressed skepticism about the proposal, citing concerns about its feasibility and potential impact on the economy. Others have praised the idea as a way to provide direct relief to Americans who are struggling with the cost of living. As the proposal moves forward, it is likely to face intense scrutiny from lawmakers and experts. The current status of the proposal is unclear, but it is expected to be a major topic of discussion in the coming weeks. Bessent's comments on Fox News Sunday Morning Futures suggest that the administration is aware of the need for congressional approval, but it is unclear whether lawmakers will ultimately support the plan. As the proposal continues to unfold, it will be closely watched by policymakers, experts, and the public.