Washington, D.C.: US President Donald Trump has addressed a divided Congress, taking a victory lap over what he called an unprecedentedly successful start to his presidency. Speaking before a Republican-controlled Capitol, he praised his administration’s early accomplishments and laid out ambitious plans for the months ahead.
Trump stated that, “We have accomplished more in 43 days than most administrations accomplished in four or eight years, and we are just getting started.” He cited a shift in national sentiment toward “pride” and “confidence” and compared himself to George Washington, while also boasting about his 2024 electoral victory.
Trump described a sweeping list of actions, including executive orders, a freeze on foreign aid, and lower illegal border crossings. He also highlighted his ban on transgender athletes in women’s sports and his moves to remove “woke ideology” from schools and the military.
Democrats in the audience remained largely silent, some holding signs reading “false” and “lies” in protest. A dramatic moment unfolded when Texas Congressman Al Green interrupted the speech, waving his cane and shouting objections before being escorted out by security. He later stated he was protesting suggested cuts to Medicaid.
Trump relished the confrontational atmosphere, openly mocking Democrats and reviving his “Pocahontas” nickname for Senator Elizabeth Warren. He also aimed legal efforts against him, remarking that attempts to prosecute him had “not worked out” for his opponents.
Shifting focus to the economy, Trump criticised former President Joe Biden for inflation, including high egg prices, and pledged “dramatic and immediate relief” for working families. He introduced a new Department of Government Efficiency (Doge) to curb wasteful spending and reduce inflation. He also doubled down on tariffs, warning that they may cause a “disturbance” but were essential for protecting American interests.
Despite promising to balance the budget, Trump offered no specifics on how he would offset tax cuts, including his proposed elimination of taxes on tips, overtime, and Social Security, which could significantly increase the national deficit.
Foreign policy took a backseat in the speech, though Trump reiterated controversial plans such as an American annexation of Greenland and increased control over the Panama Canal. He briefly noted ongoing conflicts in the Middle East but spoke more extensively about Ukraine, revealing a letter from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressing readiness to work under Trump’s leadership to achieve peace.
Trump hinted at a potential thaw in relations with Zelensky, citing discussions on security agreements and mineral trade. His remarks on Ukraine marked a rare moment of diplomatic engagement in a speech otherwise focused on domestic policy and partisan clashes.
At over an hour and 40 minutes, Trump’s address set a modern record for length, mirroring the high-energy, combative nature of his presidency. While Republicans cheered his achievements and vision, Democrats swiftly left the chamber, leaving a stark contrast in reactions to his bold claims and policies.
As Trump’s second term continues, the battle lines in Washington remain firmly drawn, with his address serving as a preview of the contentious road ahead.
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