By 
In his first address to a joint session of Congress since taking office, President Donald Trump declared that his administration had already achieved more in 43 days than most presidents accomplish in four or eight years. Speaking to a Republican controlled Capitol on March 4, 2025, Trump confidently proclaimed, “We are just getting started,” as he detailed a range of executive orders and policy actions he said had already reshaped the country’s trajectory.
Among his major accomplishments, Trump emphasized the reduction of illegal border crossings, a freeze on foreign aid, and his executive ban on transgender athletes competing in women’s sports. “We’ve done more for women’s sports than anyone ever thought possible,” he said. The president also made his disdain for “woke ideologies” clearly saying, “Wokeness is trouble. Wokeness is bad. It’s gone, and we feel so much better for it, don’t we?”
The president’s speech, lasting over an hour and 40 minutes, covered a wide range of topics, from economic recovery to immigration reform. On the economy, Trump boasted of his administration’s efforts to reduce wasteful spending, promising tax cuts and government efficiency to relieve financial pressure on working families.
By Ruvarashe Gora
“We’re going to rescue the economy. We’re going to make getting relief for working families my highest priority,” Trump told Congress.
But the speech was not without controversy. As Trump lauded his achievements, Democrats in the audience, many of whom remained seated and silent, held up small signs with the words “false” and “lies.” When the president mocked their lack of applause, particularly for his remarks about the economy and immigration, the tension in the room was palpable. He also took aim at political figures, including Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren, referring to her as “Pocahontas” and mocking her refusal to cheer his proposals.
While the domestic agenda dominated much of the speech, Trump also addressed foreign policy, emphasizing his commitment to strengthening America’s position on the world stage. He referenced a letter he had recently received from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, which Trump said showed the Ukrainian leader’s readiness to work with the U.S. on security and mineral agreements. “He said, ‘My team and I stand ready to work under President Trump’s strong leadership to get a peace that lasts,’” Trump said, highlighting the ongoing negotiations over the conflict in Ukraine.
The speech took a combative turn when Trump discussed his trade policies, particularly his plans to impose reciprocal tariffs on U.S. trade partners, including Canada, Mexico, and China. He acknowledged that this might cause “a period of indigestion” for U.S. farmers, but insisted that it was necessary for the country’s long-term economic health. “This is about protecting the soul of our country,” he declared.
Despite his fiery rhetoric and bold promises, Trump faced a largely lukewarm response from Democrats. Their silence in the chamber stood in stark contrast to the Republican applause that punctuated his remarks. Trump’s speech, which set a new record for the longest presidential address to Congress, showcased his unrelenting commitment to his political agenda and his resolve to push forward with the changes he believes America desperately needs.
As the president wrapped up his remarks, the chamber quickly emptied, with his critics exiting the Capitol and his supporters rallying behind his words. For Trump, the speech was both a celebration of his early victories and a clear signal that he intends to continue fighting for his vision of a transformed America.
Comments