JUST IN: Sen. Ron Johnson says America cannot afford $2,000 tariff rebate checks, warning the plan would deepen the deficit and strain federal finances

Sen. Ron Johnson issued a stark warning on Tuesday, arguing that proposed $2,000 tariff rebate checks would place an unsustainable burden on federal finances.

The Wisconsin Republican said that while the idea may appeal politically, the nation’s fiscal reality makes such payments “irresponsible and economically dangerous.”

Johnson cautioned that expanding federal outlays at a time of rising debt and high interest payments would “dig the deficit even deeper,” noting that the government is already struggling to manage existing obligations.

He urged Congress to focus on reducing spending and tackling long-term structural challenges rather than introducing short-term giveaways.

The proposal — reportedly being floated as part of a broader economic package — has sparked immediate debate on Capitol Hill.

Supporters argue the rebate would give families meaningful relief amid higher prices, but critics like Johnson insist the country “cannot spend its way out of every problem.”

The plan is expected to face significant scrutiny as budget negotiations continue.