Senator Kelly Criticizes Trump’s Proposed Payments
Senator Mark Kelly, a Democrat from Arizona, accused President Donald Trump of trying to “buy votes” by proposing $5,000 checks to every adult American if Republicans maintain control of Congress after the 2026 midterm elections. On CBS News’ Face the Nation, Kelly discussed a series of cash-payment initiatives by Trump, including one-time $90 payments for Medicare Part B beneficiaries and $500 Affordable Care Act refunds for some enrollees.
When asked for his stance on these efforts, Kelly emphasized the importance of aiding seniors and working-class citizens but urged skepticism towards the $5,000 payment proposal.
Trump’s $5,000 Check Plan Faces Scrutiny
Trump announced the $5,000 payment, labeled the “Trump Dividend,” during the Republican Party’s first midterm convention in September. He reiterated the pledge in a recent video message, promising the payment if Republicans control both the House and Senate. The proposal has sparked significant attention due to its potential cost, which could exceed $1 trillion.
The Trump administration has launched other direct-payment initiatives, such as one-time $90 payments to 21 million Medicare Part B beneficiaries and $500 ACA-related refunds to 950,000 HealthCare.gov users. Critics argue these efforts aim to gain electoral support, while Trump’s allies defend them as necessary relief amid rising healthcare costs and economic pressure.
Kelly Labels the Plan a ‘Payoff’
In his interview, Kelly criticized the timing and conditions of the $5,000 proposal. He described Trump’s past actions, such as tax cuts for the wealthy, as detrimental to healthcare and food benefits for people in need. Kelly labeled the proposal a “payoff,” suggesting it’s an attempt to influence votes.
Other Democratic figures, including Representative Jamie Raskin, echoed this perspective, calling the plan a “political bribe” and emphasizing Congress’s control over federal spending.
Democratic Alternative Proposals
Pressured by CBS’s Margaret Brennan about Democratic alternatives to Trump’s proposals, Kelly mentioned legislation he is working on with Senator Chris Van Hollen. Their plan involves taxing individuals earning over $1 million annually while lowering taxes for middle-income households. Kelly argued the approach provides more sustainable relief than one-time payments.
Kelly also pointed out that reversing Trump’s tariffs and ending the conflict with Iran could lower consumer costs. Such positions are expected to be central to Democratic messaging leading into the midterms, focusing on long-term economic policies over immediate cash payments.
Polling Data Reflects Mixed Reactions
Two polls reveal complex voter attitudes toward the $5,000 payment proposal. An Economist/YouGov poll found that 45% of likely voters opposed the checks, while 43% supported them. However, only 22% believe Trump will deliver if Republicans control Congress.
Similarly, a Verasight survey showed that the pledge made 33% of respondents less likely to vote Republican, while only 15% said it made them more likely. Most indicated no change in their voting intentions.
Other Trump Payments and Dividends
Trump suggested additional dividends for residents near data centers due to expected benefits. In December 2025, service members received a $1,776 “warrior dividend,” and Trump cited this as proof of his ability to deliver payments.
The proposed DOGE Dividend and a $2,000 tariff rebate were other ideas linked to savings from the Department of Government Efficiency. Despite backing from key figures like Elon Musk, these remained proposals.