Trump wants to send Americans money. Congress and economists don't seem thrilled with the idea

WASHINGTON (AP) — Donald Trump’s pitch to send Americans $5,000 checks should Republicans prevail in the November midterms is drawing scorn from some members of Congress — the very people who have constitutional authority over federal spending. Economists and other political observers are voicing concerns about the potential effects on inflation and the national balance sheet. Taken together, it’s a swift reaction that makes clear that Trump’s dubious election-year gambit is likely little more than another grand promise from a politician with a long history of them.

This is the biggest liar to ever serve in government. Robert Garcia, a California Democrat who was in Dallas on Thursday as part of his party’s effort to counter Republicans’ midterm convention. “The dividend is not happening.” Trump previously pledged to use savings from the Department of Government Efficiency and revenue from tariffs on foreign imports to distribute payments of $2,000 or more, but none of that came to pass.

economy is reckoning with persistent inflation and rising interest rates, two forces that have politically undermined Republicans after previously helping them reclaim power from Democrats. Trump claimed the payments would be possible because of the economy’s strength, yet consumer sentiment is weak as gasoline prices are increasing because of the war with Iran and wages are struggling to keep pace with inflation. A few of Trump’s allies embraced the idea, including Ohio Sen.

Bernie Moreno, who said he would prepare legislation for the payments. But critics accused him of trying to buy votes at a time when Republicans are trying to maintain slim majorities in Congress. “I don’t know about you all, but frankly I’m insulted by the notion that my vote this November could be bought for 5k,” Rep.

Thomas Massie, a Kentucky Republican who is one of Trump’s least favorite lawmakers, wrote on social media. “Not to mention the inflation this would cause.” Rep. Ted Lieu, vice chairman of the House Democratic caucus, outright mocked the president.

“If Democrats flip the House and Senate everyone will get a $10,000 dividend, and a pony, and free ice cream for life,” he posted on social media. “(Folks can also choose free yogurt for life, because we’re Democrats after all).” The president’s proposal, unve…