Trump's $5,000 checks require Congress to approve, Johnson says

What they're saying: "He'd need Congress to act," Johnson said in a CNN interview.

• Asked by NBC's ""Meet the Press" if he'd commit that the checks will be sent, Johnson said "I commit that Congress will work through it and find consensus on that like they have to do everything else."

Driving the news: President Trump, at the GOP's midterm convention in Dallas, said this week he'd order a $5,000 check — a "Trump Dividend" — if Republicans retained control of the House and the Senate.

• Trump and other officials have said the dividend would be funded by tariffs, gains on investments and other income.

Yes, but: Such a massive stimulus also comes with significant economic risks, both to the deficit and inflation.

• The idea's already been met with bipartisan opposition, though Trump has insisted he means the offer and the checks will happen.

Editor's note: This story has been updated with new details throughout.