Swamp Notes Trump’s plan to give babies money
21 snips
Dec 5, 2025 
In this engaging discussion, Alex Rogers, U.S. business and politics correspondent for the Financial Times, and Brooke Masters, U.S. managing editor at the Financial Times, dive into Trump’s new plan for child investment accounts. They explore how the scheme works and the intriguing bipartisan support it has garnered. The conversation examines why billionaires like the Dells are eager to contribute and whether these accounts can foster financial literacy among young Americans. Plus, they discuss the potential impact on Social Security and the broader implications of such entitlement programs.
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What Trump Accounts Actually Are
- The Trump account is a tax-deferred investment for children that invests up to $5,000 yearly in a low-cost U.S. equity index fund.
- Contributions start July 4, 2026 and target children born 2025–2028 with broader access for kids under 10 via private donations.
Dells' Massive Donation
- Michael and Susan Dell pledged $6.25bn to top up Invest America and extend benefits to children under 10.
- Their donation would give up to 25 million kids $250 each as a starter balance.
Bipartisan Roots And Different Goals
- Support for baby-bond style accounts crosses party lines, with Ted Cruz and Cory Booker both backing similar ideas for different reasons.
- Republicans frame it as creating young capitalists while Democrats see it as a tool to reduce the racial wealth gap.