#TrumpCongressSpeech On March 4, 2025, President Donald Trump delivered a speech during a joint session of Congress, marking his first major address since his inauguration six weeks earlier. The speech, lasting about 1 hour and 40 minutes, covered various topics, including domestic policies, international relations, and economic initiatives.
Key points:
Domestic Policy: Trump emphasized his administration's efforts to reduce diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, claiming that such measures were divisive. He also announced the creation of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, aimed at reducing federal spending and streamlining government operations.
Economic Measures: The president declared a trade war with nations such as Mexico, China, and Canada, introducing tariffs intended to protect American industries. This announcement led to a notable drop in the stock market, reflecting investors' concerns over potential economic repercussions.
International Relations: Trump expressed a desire to end the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, mentioning a letter of support from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy indicating a willingness to negotiate.
Reactions:
The address elicited mixed reactions. Republicans frequently applauded, praising the speech as a powerful articulation of the administration's agenda. In contrast, many Democrats protested by walking out of the chamber, some wearing "resist" T-shirts, signaling their opposition to the president's policies and rhetoric. Notably, Representative Al Green was removed from the chamber after disrupting the speech, highlighting the deep partisan divide.