White House National Economic Council director Hassett downplayed worries that
President Trump’s proposal to send $5,000 checks to every U.S. adult would
exacerbate record-high borrowing. “We can do this in a fiscally responsible way.
This is a serious proposal,” Hassett said, adding the administration could
pursue it via budget reconciliation to sidestep minority opposition. Asked about
offsets — the plan would add more than $1tn as federal debt approaches record
highs — he said they “must be negotiated with Congress.” Analysts are skeptical
and senior House and Senate GOP leaders have been cool to the idea.
