President Donald Trump took to Truth Social on Sunday, asserting that implementing tariffs on foreign imports could result in a “dividend” of $2,000 or more per individual. According to Trump, this payout would exclude high-income earners.
While discussing Trump’s statement during an appearance on ABC’s “This Week,” Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent explained that the primary effect of tariffs is an immediate boost in government revenue. However, Bessent emphasized that the administration’s broader objective centers on correcting trade imbalances by revitalizing domestic manufacturing. As production returns to the United States, he noted, tariff collections would likely diminish while tax revenue rises due to greater economic activity.
Bessent, in his interview with George Stephanopoulos, described the proposed $2,000 dividend as potentially taking several forms. He cited the administration’s tax policy initiatives, including proposals to eliminate taxes on tips, overtime pay, and Social Security, as well as permitting deductions for auto loan interest, as possible avenues for delivering these benefits.
In a separate memorandum, Trump reiterated his pledge regarding the dividend, while touting what he characterized as a “record stock market price,” minimal inflation, and historically high retirement account values.
