Donald Trump’s recent address to Congress highlighted the stark divide in American politics. Delivered with fervor, the speech saw Republicans erupting in applause while Democrats expressed disapproval by walking out. As Trump spoke, he painted a picture of progress and prosperity, claiming that America was poised for a golden age. Meanwhile, the Dow Jones Industrial Average remained hundreds of points lower than its standing on his Inauguration Day.
Throughout nearly two hours, Trump laid out his administration's accomplishments, focusing heavily on immigration and border security. He detailed changes at the southern border, claiming a newfound quietness and asserting that "momentum" had returned to the country. However, support for granting legal status to undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children has waned.
Trump's rhetoric on building a wall along the entire U.S.-Mexico border remains a polarizing issue, with nearly half of Americans supporting the initiative. He announced that reciprocal tariffs imposed by the U.S. would take effect on April 2, aiming to strengthen the nation's economic position. Ignoring the recent stock market drop, Trump instead highlighted a decline in interest rates as a triumph of his administration.
The President did not shy away from controversial topics, boasting about making English the official language of the United States, abolishing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives both in and out of government, and barring transgender athletes from competing in women’s sports. His speech, the longest ever delivered to Congress, often used Joe Biden as a scapegoat, criticizing his predecessor as the worst president in American history and decrying his policies as disastrous.
"I think we’re going to get it – one way or the other, we’re going to get it." – Donald Trump
Elon Musk, Trump's largest campaign donor and head of Doge, received special acknowledgment during the address, further emphasizing Trump's admiration for influential figures in business. The gesture underscored the close ties between Trump's political ambitions and his corporate allies.
The atmosphere in Congress was charged with partisanship, as illustrated by the Republicans' enthusiastic applause juxtaposed against the Democrats' vocal disapproval. This clear divide underscores the ongoing political tensions within the nation.