Topline
President Donald Trump concluded his speech at the GOP’s midterm convention by leading attendees in a pledge that referred to him as the “greatest President” and encouraged voting, following baseless accusations against Democrats regarding election rigging.
Members of the crowd hold their hands up as they make a pledge with US President Donald Trump during the second day of the Republican National Committee midterm convention.
AFP via Getty Images
Key Facts
Trump invited the audience to raise their right hand and guided them in a pledge to the “greatest president in the history of the United States” to vote in November for the midterms.
With his right hand raised, the president urged supporters to vote with family and friends, stating, “I don’t care if I’m registered or not, I’m going to try to cheat like hell like they do.”
The statement about cheating prompted laughter from the crowd before Trump criticized Democrats, claiming without evidence, “there has never been bigger cheaters.”
Trump then prompted the crowd to swear they would vote in September, with attendees echoing his remarks, concluding with “So help me God.”
The president joked that attendees could vote Democrat if they wished, but asserted there’s “one person in this room” who wouldn’t, adding, “If you vote you’re voting Republican.”
What Else Did Trump Say In His Speech?
In his address, the president again urged supporters to act as if he was on the ballot in November. “You gotta do me the biggest favor: pretend I’m on the ticket. I’m on the ticket.” He then declared this would be “one of the most important elections.” Trump’s strategy to frame the midterms around his candidacy comes as his approval rating reaches new lows, currently at 36%.
What About Trump’s $5000 Dividend Check Promise?
One of the major announcements during Trump’s speech on the first night of the convention was the promise of $5000 “dividend” checks for all American adults if Republicans secured both chambers in the midterms. None of the other speakers on Thursday night, including Vice President JD Vance during his keynote address, mentioned these checks. Trump referenced the promise again in his closing remarks but provided minimal details on funding mechanisms likely exceeding $1 trillion.
further reading
Trump Promises $5,000 ‘Dividend’ For Every Adult Citizen If Republicans Win Midterms (Forbes)
Trump Keeps Promising Cash To Americans—But They Haven’t Gotten Any (Forbes)
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