Rep. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) recently addressed a proposal by former President Donald Trump to distribute a $5,000 dividend to every American adult. During an interview on ABC’s “This Week,” Lawler declined to offer direct support for the plan, instead focusing on the budgetary implications of such a policy.

Lawler questioned the fiscal sustainability of the proposal, asking, “How do you pay for it?” His comments align him with other Republican lawmakers who have expressed concerns regarding the potential impact of the dividend on the national deficit and government spending. While Lawler stated he supports policies that return money to taxpayers, he emphasized the need for fiscal responsibility when evaluating specific campaign promises. The proposal remains a point of discussion within the party as lawmakers weigh the political appeal of the dividend against concerns over national debt and economic feasibility.