President Donald Trump announced a $1,776 "warrior dividend" bonus for approximately 1.45 million U.S. military service members during a prime-time address, framing it as a festive gift in honor of the nation's independence.
The proposed $2.6 billion funding, touted as coming from tariffs, has raised eyebrows as investigations reveal it will actually draw from military housing funds previously allocated by Congress, sparking controversy over financial ethics.
The initiative has garnered bipartisan criticism, with lawmakers questioning the legality of repurposing housing funds and the effectiveness of the tariffs claimed to support the bonuses.
Amid the announcement, Trump emphasized the strength of the U.S. economy while blaming Democrats for current economic challenges, showcasing his characteristic mix of bravado and partisan rhetoric.
The event unfolded alongside the unveiling of new plaques on the White House's "Presidential Walk of Fame," which contain derogatory descriptions of former leaders like Barack Obama and Joe Biden, inviting public backlash for their partisan tone.
As Trump approaches the next electoral cycle, the "warrior dividend" aligns with his strategy to solidify support among military personnel and reinforce his image amid criticism of his presidency.
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