Key Highlights from President Trump’s Address to Congress
President Donald Trump delivered his first joint address to Congress of his second term on Tuesday, declaring that “America is back.” Throughout his speech, which lasted 100 minutes—the longest in at least six decades—he highlighted key policy actions, including ramped-up deportations and increased tariffs on major trading partners.
The address was marked by intense partisan division, with vocal Democratic protests and multiple disruptions. Trump used the platform to reinforce his administration’s economic vision, immigration policies, and trade initiatives while sharply criticizing the Biden Administration’s handling of inflation, border security, and foreign policy.
Trump Blames Biden for Economic Woes
A significant portion of Trump’s speech targeted his predecessor, President Joe Biden, whom he referred to as “the worst president in American history.” He blamed Biden for soaring prices on everyday goods and vowed to implement immediate solutions.
“Egg prices are out of control, and we’re working hard to bring them down,” Trump stated, directly addressing concerns over inflation, a top issue for voters.
Trump also held Biden responsible for rising illegal border crossings and violent crimes committed by migrants, citing the tragic case of Laken Riley, a Georgia student killed by a Venezuelan immigrant.
Clashes with Democrats Erupt in the Chamber
Democratic lawmakers vocally opposed Trump’s remarks, with several walking out or holding protest signs. Texas Representative Al Green was forcibly removed after shouting, “You have no mandate to cut Medicaid,” referencing a budget proposal that could reduce healthcare access for millions.
Other Democrats expressed discontent in different ways. Some, including Representative Rashida Tlaib, displayed messages criticizing Trump’s policies, while others dressed in symbolic colors to highlight issues such as women’s rights and Ukraine’s sovereignty.
Immigration Crackdown Takes Center Stage
Trump reiterated his commitment to immigration reform, calling for Congress to fund what he promised would be the most extensive deportation operation in U.S. history. He invoked former President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s approach to border security, emphasizing his plan to remove undocumented migrants at an unprecedented scale.
Trump Doubles Down on Trade War and Tariffs
The President defended his aggressive trade policies, announcing new tariffs against China, India, and South Korea. His approach aims to counteract long-standing trade imbalances by imposing reciprocal tariffs that match restrictions placed on U.S. exports.
“Other countries have used tariffs against us for decades—now it’s our turn,” Trump declared.
Elon Musk’s Influence in Trump’s Administration
Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk received a warm welcome from Republican lawmakers as Trump praised his leadership in government efficiency initiatives. Musk, a key figure in Trump’s efforts to downsize federal spending, sat near the First Lady during the speech.
Federal Workforce Restructuring
Trump warned federal employees that resistance to his administration’s policies would result in immediate dismissal. He cited absenteeism and inefficiency as primary reasons for restructuring government operations.
“The days of rule by unelected bureaucrats are over,” he asserted.
Transgender Athletes Ban
Highlighting a personal story, Trump introduced Payton McNabb, a former high school athlete who suffered a brain injury in a game against a transgender competitor. He used the moment to defend his executive order barring transgender women from competing in women’s sports.
Honoring a Young Fighter
Trump captivated the chamber by introducing DJ Daniel, a 13-year-old battling brain cancer, whom he honored as an honorary Secret Service agent. The heartfelt moment drew bipartisan applause and chants of “DJ! DJ!” from lawmakers.
Foreign Policy and Ukraine Aid
Trump defended his decision to pause military aid to Ukraine, arguing that the U.S. has already contributed enough to the war effort. He read aloud a letter from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, signaling a potential minerals deal between the two nations.
Greenland: Still on Trump’s Agenda
Revisiting an idea from his first term, Trump renewed his interest in acquiring Greenland, positioning it as a national security asset. “One way or another, we’re going to get it,” he said.
Justice for the Abbey Gate Bombing
Trump closed his speech with the announcement of the capture of Mohammad Sharifullah, a key figure in the 2021 Abbey Gate bombing in Kabul. The arrest marked a major counterterrorism victory for his administration.
