Trump Suggests Using Tariff Revenues for American Rebates Amid Shutdown Threats

U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the ongoing government shutdown might lead to layoffs and cuts in projects if a resolution isn't reached soon. In an interview, he blamed Congressional Democrats while hinting that some of their favored projects could suffer permanent cancellations.

The shutdown began due to a failed congressional funding deal, with only essential services operating. Trump suggested U.S. tariff revenues, projected to eventually reach $1 trillion annually, could help offset the national debt, which stands at $37.64 trillion. He also proposed using these funds to issue rebate checks to American citizens, ranging from $1,000 to $2,000.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent had estimated the revenues would reach up to $500 billion a year, but Trump remains optimistic about higher returns, seeing this as an opportunity to assist Americans directly and manage the nation's financial obligations.