Bonus checks will sent for Christmas, $1,776 Checks Are on the Way to US Troops
President Donald Trump speaks during an address to the nation from the Diplomatic Reception Room at the White House, Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025, in Washington. (Doug Mills/The New York Times via AP, Pool)
President Trump delivered a prime-time address on Wednesday that was broadcast live on network television, using the speech to criticize Democrats for the nation’s economic difficulties while announcing a $1,776 Christmas bonus for U.S. troops, according to the Associated Press. The address came as Americans were preparing for the holiday season, though Trump focused more on political divisions than on a message of national unity.
Much of the speech echoed themes the president has emphasized in recent weeks, even as public concern remains high over the cost of groceries, housing, utilities, and other essentials. Trump has repeatedly promised a strong economic rebound, but inflation has remained elevated and the job market has weakened following the implementation of his import tariffs.
Trump argued that those tariffs—widely viewed as contributing to higher consumer prices—would help finance what he called a “warrior dividend,” providing payments to approximately 1.45 million active-duty service members. He said the bonus checks were already being distributed and suggested the payments could help ease financial pressures on military families.
While nationally televised presidential addresses are typically less partisan than campaign-style events, Trump’s remarks closely resembled his rally speeches, including repeated claims that his administration is “fixing” the economy.
The president ended on a more upbeat note, highlighting that the United States will host the Olympics and World Cup soccer matches in the coming years. He also pointed to 2026 as the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, before closing with holiday wishes, wishing Americans a merry Christmas and a happy new year.