US President Donald Trump has announced a warrior dividend payment to US service members, in a speech in which he also defended his track record on the economy after 11 months back in office.
In a televised address to the nation on Wednesday, Trump stated that cheques for $1,776 (£1,329) for 1.45 million US service members were already on the way and should arrive before Christmas. He asserted that these payments would be financed, in part, by his tariffs.
In the combative address, Trump also touted his achievements on immigration while railing against opposition Democrats. Speaking loudly and quickly, he seemed determined to convince Americans that the US was doing well, and that circumstances would only improve.
He claimed prices were falling, even as polls indicate dissatisfaction among Americans with the rising costs of housing, childcare, and healthcare. Critics, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, have suggested that Trump's insights reflect a lack of awareness of the struggles many are facing.
In the brief 18-minute address, Trump stated that the warrior dividend, totaling $2.57 billion (£1.9 billion), would be distributed in honour of our nation's founding in 1776. He indicated the funds were derived from his extensive tariffs and legislation signed into law earlier in the year.
Trump suggested that nobody deserves the dividend more than the military. However, many of his claims were labeled exaggerated or unfounded. Much of his speech revolved around his economic record, shifting the blame for rising prices onto former President Joe Biden and the Democrats, whom he mentioned seven times.
While some prices, such as fuel and eggs, have decreased, other essential food items continue to rise, raising doubt about Trump's assertions. Recent data reveals that inflation rose to 3% as of September, a concern that has contributed to falling consumer confidence.
Trump admitted that economic issues have posed challenges for Republican candidates in recent elections, and that mid-term elections next year could similarly reflect voter sentiment regarding the economy. Polls indicate that many Americans believe this to be one of the most difficult periods for living costs in their lives.
In his closing remarks, Trump emphasized potential improvements for the future coinciding with the 250th anniversary celebrations of America's founding next year. He urged Americans to view the nation with a renewed sense of loyalty, confidence, and respect on the global stage.
In a televised address to the nation on Wednesday, Trump stated that cheques for $1,776 (£1,329) for 1.45 million US service members were already on the way and should arrive before Christmas. He asserted that these payments would be financed, in part, by his tariffs.
In the combative address, Trump also touted his achievements on immigration while railing against opposition Democrats. Speaking loudly and quickly, he seemed determined to convince Americans that the US was doing well, and that circumstances would only improve.
He claimed prices were falling, even as polls indicate dissatisfaction among Americans with the rising costs of housing, childcare, and healthcare. Critics, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, have suggested that Trump's insights reflect a lack of awareness of the struggles many are facing.
In the brief 18-minute address, Trump stated that the warrior dividend, totaling $2.57 billion (£1.9 billion), would be distributed in honour of our nation's founding in 1776. He indicated the funds were derived from his extensive tariffs and legislation signed into law earlier in the year.
Trump suggested that nobody deserves the dividend more than the military. However, many of his claims were labeled exaggerated or unfounded. Much of his speech revolved around his economic record, shifting the blame for rising prices onto former President Joe Biden and the Democrats, whom he mentioned seven times.
While some prices, such as fuel and eggs, have decreased, other essential food items continue to rise, raising doubt about Trump's assertions. Recent data reveals that inflation rose to 3% as of September, a concern that has contributed to falling consumer confidence.
Trump admitted that economic issues have posed challenges for Republican candidates in recent elections, and that mid-term elections next year could similarly reflect voter sentiment regarding the economy. Polls indicate that many Americans believe this to be one of the most difficult periods for living costs in their lives.
In his closing remarks, Trump emphasized potential improvements for the future coinciding with the 250th anniversary celebrations of America's founding next year. He urged Americans to view the nation with a renewed sense of loyalty, confidence, and respect on the global stage.
