Trump announces $1,776 'warrior dividend' for US troops

President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that nearly 1.5 million American troops would receive a check worth $1,776 before Christmas. 

During a speech addressing the nation from the White House, Trump said the payments were made possible by his tariff policy. 

"Because of tariffs, along with the just passed One Big, Beautiful Bill, tonight I am also proud to announce that more than 1,450,000 military service members will receive a special, we call warrior dividend before Christmas, a warrior dividend," Trump said. "In honor of our nation’s founding in 1776, we are sending every soldier $1,776. Think of that. And the checks are already on the way."

"We made a lot more money than anybody thought because of tariffs, and the bill helped us along. Nobody deserves it more than our military. And I say congratulations to everybody. And by the way, we now have record enlistment in our military, and last year we had among the worst recruitment numbers in our military’s history. What a difference a year makes," Trump continued. 

Trump also praised the progress his administration has made on the economy, which continues to be a sore spot for many Americans. 

"We’re poised for an economic boom the likes of which the world has never seen. Soon we will host the World Cup and the Olympics, both of which I got. But most importantly, we will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence," Trump said.

"There could be no more fitting tribute to this epic milestone than to complete the comeback of America that began just one year ago. When the world looks at us next year, let them see a nation that is loyal to its citizens, faithful to its workers, confident to its identity, certain to its destiny and the envy of the entire globe. We are respected again, like we have never been respected before," he added. "To each and every one of you, have a merry Christmas and a happy new year. God bless you all."