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Lutnick says promised $5,000 checks for Americans won't come from taxpayer dollars

11 SEP 2026 · 13:32 ET·4:50·293K VIEWS·10.7× USUAL PACE

U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick stated that the $5,000 checks promised by Republicans if they win the midterms would not be funded by taxpayer dollars. He suggested that the funds could be generated through alternative economic measures, such as a "Trump Platinum Card" program that allows individuals to extend their visas for a fee, potentially raising $500 billion.

WHY IT MATTERS

The proposed funding mechanism for the $5,000 checks is crucial because it suggests a departure from traditional government spending, aiming to avoid increasing the national debt or burdening taxpayers directly.

ALSO DISCUSSED

The interview also touched on the Trump administration's trade dispute with Canada, rising energy costs, and the potential for lower gas prices if Venezuelan and Iranian oil production increases.

HOWARD LUTNICK REPUBLICAN PARTY TRADE WAR ENERGY PRICES

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