President Donald Trump indicated in a recent interview that his proposed $2,000 tariff-funded rebate checks could be distributed “toward the end of the year,” reviving a contentious policy idea ahead of the 2026 elections.
The proposal, which Trump claims can be funded by substantial tariff revenue, faces internal opposition and legislative hurdles, with National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett stating it “would ultimately be up to Congress” and Senator Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) arguing the U.S. “can’t afford” it. Despite the pushback, Trump remains confident, telling The New York Times, “The tariffs have made us a fortune,” and asserting there is enough revenue for the rebates alongside other priorities.