Trump campaigns in Nebraska, repeats $5,000 payment promise ahead of midterms
President Donald Trump continued his midterm campaign push Monday in Nebraska, where Republicans are defending a Senate seat in a state that has traditionally favored the GOP.
(NBC)- President Donald Trump continued his midterm campaign push Monday in Nebraska, where Republicans are defending a Senate seat in a state that has traditionally favored the GOP.
Trump rallied in Grand Island in support of Republican Sen. Pete Ricketts, who is facing independent challenger Dan Osborn. Democrats are not fielding a candidate in the race.
“This is the most important midterm election,” Trump told supporters.
Trump also repeated his promise to provide $5,000 to every adult U.S. citizen if Republicans maintain control of both the House and Senate. Congressional approval would be required to authorize such payments.
Some supporters at the rally expressed skepticism about the proposal.
“I don’t think he can do it. I don’t think he has the power to,” Nebraska voter Austin Schnitzler said. “Whether or not he made the promise, I’d be voting for Republican.”
Trump also signed an executive order during the rally expanding access to tax-exempt red-dyed diesel, which is normally restricted to off-road uses such as agriculture and construction. The move comes as diesel prices remain elevated during the war with Iran.
While discussing the economic costs of the war and his argument that preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon justified those costs, Trump drew criticism for comments referencing Los Angeles and San Diego. California Gov. Gavin Newsom and the mayors of both cities criticized the remarks. The White House said Trump was describing the potential threat posed by a nuclear-armed Iran, not advocating an attack on American cities.
In a separate move, Trump announced that advertisements promoting his administration that had been funded with taxpayer money would instead be paid for by him and through money raised by his super PAC, MAGA Inc. The ads had faced criticism from both Democrats and Republicans over the use of public funds.
The economy and cost of living remain major issues as Republicans and Democrats campaign for control of Congress ahead of the November midterm elections.
