In a fiery address to Congress on Tuesday, U.S. President Donald Trump proclaimed that "America is back" after implementing significant changes to U.S. foreign policy, initiating a trade war, and reducing government workforce numbers within his first six weeks back in office.
Trump's prime time speech, his first to Congress since assuming office on January 20, came on the heels of market instability triggered by his imposition of extensive new tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China.
While foreign policy was a minor focus, Trump hinted at resuming a minerals deal with Ukraine, previously stalled after a problematic White House meeting last week. He also mentioned ongoing discussions with Russia, suggesting optimism for peace, and reiterated his commitment to bringing peace to the Middle East through expanding the Abraham Accords.
On the domestic front, Trump vowed to balance the federal budget and called for a comprehensive tax cut agenda. Analysts warn that such tax cuts could further increase the federal debt, which currently stands at $36 trillion and faces a looming debt ceiling crisis later this year.
The speech echoed the rhetoric of Trump’s campaign rallies, with frequent attacks on his Democratic predecessor Joe Biden, labeling immigrant criminals as "savages," and pledging to ban what he termed "transgender ideology." Amidst his remarks, Trump made several exaggerated or unfounded claims.
Democratic Protests
Trump began his speech with a standing ovation from Republican supporters, declaring, "Our country is on the verge of a comeback the likes of which the world has never witnessed, and perhaps will never witness again." In stark contrast, Democrats in the chamber held signs reading "No King!" and "This Is NOT Normal," with about half of them walking out in protest by the speech’s end.
Notably, Texas Congressman Al Green was removed from the chamber after refusing to sit down, highlighting the tense atmosphere. Trump, known for his combative style, seemed to thrive on the discord, commenting, "I look at the Democrats in front of me, and I realize there is absolutely nothing I can say to make them happy or to make them stand or smile or applaud."
The address took place in the House of Representatives, a venue that holds significant emotional weight as it was the site of the January 6th Capitol riot by Trump supporters attempting to overturn the 2020 election results.
In response, Democrats delivered a rebuttal through Senator Elissa Slotkin, who criticized Trump by harking back to President Ronald Reagan’s leadership during the Cold War. Slotkin stated, "Donald Trump's actions suggest that, in his heart, he doesn't believe we are an exceptional nation," emphasizing her stance on Trump's impact on national and global affairs.
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Trump touts start to term in Congress, drawing catcalls from Democrats
cgtn.com
