Trump calls critics tariff fools, pledges $2,000 ‘dividend’ to Americans

US President Donald Trump has once again defended his sweeping tariff policy, calling opponents of tariffs ‘fools’ and claiming the United States has become the ‘richest’ and ‘most respected’ country under his leadership.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump claimed the tariff revenue collected under his administration will soon allow the government to start paying down the national debt of $37 trillion adding that every American, except high-income individuals, will receive a ‘dividend’ of at least $2,000 (around ₹1.77 lakh).

“People that are against Tariffs are FOOLS!” Trump wrote. “We are taking in Trillions of Dollars and will soon begin paying down our ENORMOUS DEBT… A dividend of at least $2000 a person (not including high income people!) will be paid to everyone.”

The post comes just days after the US Supreme Court expressed doubts over the legality of Trump’s tariffs. 

While some conservative judges acknowledged the president’s inherent powers on foreign policy, others expressed hesitation indicating the court could remain sharply split. The Supreme Court currently has a 6-3 conservative majority.

The outcome of the case could have major implications on future trade policy and the balance of power between the White House and Congress.