Trump dominates RNC convention, promising $5,000 payouts if GOP wins midterms

Former President Donald Trump dominated the Republican National Committee's midterm convention in Dallas, Texas, on September 10-11, 2026, making several controversial statements. During his address, Trump promised a $5,000 "Trump Dividend" to every adult U.S. citizen, contingent on Republicans securing control of both the House and Senate in the upcoming November midterm elections. This proposal, which he suggested would be funded by the nation's economic success and tariff revenues, faced scrutiny regarding its estimated $1 trillion-plus cost and potential legal implications as a form of bribery.

On the second night of the convention, Trump further stirred controversy by leading attendees in a pledge where he encouraged them to "cheat like hell" in the midterms, claiming Democrats engage in such practices. He also urged supporters to vote regardless of their registration status and warned that they would "go to hell" if they failed to cast their ballots. These remarks drew significant backlash and concerns about their impact on the electoral process.