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President Donald Trump credited his administration for taking “swift and unrelenting action” in reshaping the nation’s economy, immigration policies, and foreign relations during a speech to Congress on Tuesday. His remarks, aimed at both lawmakers and the American public, came amid a turbulent start to his latest term in office. Meanwhile, Democratic legislators voiced their opposition, holding up placards accusing him of spreading “lies,” with one member ultimately ejected from the chamber.
Trump’s address marked another step in his firm grip on Washington, where the Republican-controlled House and Senate have largely supported his sweeping efforts to reduce the federal government’s influence and redefine America’s role on the global stage. Having survived multiple impeachments and legal battles, Trump is now advancing aggressive policies that have led to government downsizing, tensions with international allies, and economic uncertainty fueled by an escalating trade war.
“It has been nothing but swift and unrelenting action,” Trump declared. “The people elected me to do the job, and I am doing it.”
A key figure in his administration’s efforts is billionaire adviser Elon Musk, who is spearheading initiatives to overhaul the federal bureaucracy. Seated in the House gallery, Musk received standing ovations from Republicans as Trump praised his team’s work in exposing what he described as government “abuses.” However, many of Trump’s claims faced pushback, including allegations that millions of deceased individuals were still receiving Social Security payments, prompting Democrats to respond with shouts of “Not true!”
Economic Challenges and Policy Priorities
Trump addressed economic concerns amid growing discontent among voters who backed him to combat inflation but are now grappling with financial instability. The S&P 500 has lost all gains since Election Day, and consumer sentiment surveys indicate increasing frustration with inflation.
“Among my very highest priorities is to rescue our economy and get dramatic and immediate relief to working families,” Trump stated. He vowed to tackle rising costs, particularly for essentials like eggs and energy, while blaming his predecessor, Joe Biden, for the economic turmoil. However, he provided limited specifics on his plans.
Trump also called for extending his first-term tax cuts and securing more federal funding for his border crackdown, reiterating his push for “mass deportation” of undocumented immigrants.
His speech followed the announcement of sweeping new tariffs, including a 25% tax on goods from Canada and Mexico, a move aimed at pressuring those nations to curb fentanyl trafficking and illegal immigration. Additional tariffs on Chinese imports, raised to 20%, have heightened fears of a prolonged trade war.
“Whatever they tariff us, we tariff them. Whatever they tax us, we tax them,” Trump declared, underscoring his willingness to escalate the standoff despite concerns about rising consumer prices.
Divided Congress and Democratic Resistance
The atmosphere in Congress was deeply polarized. As Trump took the podium, Republican lawmakers erupted in chants of “USA! USA!” while Democrats largely remained seated in silent protest. Some held up signs with messages such as “Save Medicaid” and “Protect Veterans” to highlight opposition to Trump’s proposed budget cuts.
After several disruptions, House Speaker Mike Johnson intervened to restore order, at one point ordering Texas Rep. Al Green’s removal from the chamber. Some Democrats invited guests to underscore the impact of Trump’s policies, including federal workers who lost their jobs and individuals affected by Medicaid cuts.
Tuesday, March 4, 2025.(photo AP)
“It’s worth it to let people know that there are some who will stand up” to Trump, Green told reporters after his ejection.
Foreign Policy Shifts and Global Repercussions
Trump used his address to outline his administration’s stance on global conflicts, dramatically shifting policies from the Biden era. His decision to freeze military aid to Ukraine has intensified pressure on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as the U.S. leader pushes for peace talks with Russia. Many Democratic lawmakers, in a show of solidarity with Ukraine, wore blue and yellow ties and scarves.
In the Middle East, Trump’s approach has also drawn scrutiny. Negotiations for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas have faltered, with Trump proposing the forced relocation of Palestinian civilians in Gaza and suggesting a U.S. “takeover” of the region. These moves have strained relations with key allies and disrupted longstanding U.S. support for a two-state solution.
A Controversial Legacy and the Road Ahead
Tuesday’s speech contrasted sharply with Trump’s last State of the Union address during his first term, which took place just after his impeachment acquittal and before the COVID-19 pandemic took hold. Back then, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi dramatically tore up his speech. This time, Speaker Johnson had a different response.
“We will not be ripping up the speech tonight,” Johnson said. “I would like to frame it in gilded gold.”
Trump positioned himself as a leader who has dismantled a “weaponized government” that he claims was used against him by political adversaries. He also championed his administration’s rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies, vowing to eliminate such initiatives from federal agencies and the military.
“Our country will be woke no longer,” he declared.
Among the guests seated with First Lady Melania Trump were individuals meant to highlight Trump’s policy priorities, including law enforcement officers, victims of crime, and former detainees from overseas. Meanwhile, outside the Capitol, protests erupted across all 50 states, with demonstrators voicing opposition to Trump’s economic policies, immigration measures, and foreign policy decisions.
As Trump moves forward with his ambitious agenda, the political divide remains sharp, with both his supporters and critics preparing for the battles ahead.
