The White House has unveiled excerpts from President Donald Trump's upcoming State of the Union address, scheduled for Tuesday at 9:00 pm before a joint session of Congress. In his first formal speech of his second term, Trump is set to boast about what he calls "the greatest economy we've ever had" and deliver a scathing critique of Democratic policies.
Economic Transformation and American Pride
Trump's speech will highlight a dramatic economic revival, with the president claiming, "Tonight, after just one year, I can say with dignity and pride that we have achieved a transformation like no one has ever seen before, and a turnaround for the ages." He emphasises that this progress is irreversible, stating, "We will never go back to where we were just a short time ago." The address frames this as part of a broader American legacy, invoking the spirit of 1776 and pledging to build a nation where "government answers to the people, not the powerful."
Policy Achievements and Corporate Crackdowns
Specific policy wins are touted in the excerpts, including efforts to lower prescription drug costs, which Trump asserts previous administrations failed to accomplish. He also references an Executive Order banning large Wall Street firms from bulk-buying single-family homes, with a call for Congress to make this ban permanent, arguing that "homes are for people, not corporations." The speech promises continued investment and job growth, attributing it to an "America First" approach that reverses decades of perceived economic mismanagement.
Sharp Criticism of Democrats and Minnesota
Trump's address takes aim at Democrats, accusing them of cutting all funding for the Department of Homeland Security, thereby compromising national security. He demands "the full and immediate restoration of all funding for the Border Security and Homeland Security of the United States." Additionally, the speech singles out Minnesota, alleging that members of the Somali community have "pillaged an estimated $19 billion dollars from the American taxpayer," labelling it a "stunning example" of corruption.
Security and Foreign Policy Stances
On security matters, Trump vows to keep communities safe by addressing repeat offenders released by "pro-crime politicians." In foreign policy, he pledges to "make peace wherever I can" but warns of confronting threats to America decisively. The speech also highlights efforts to restore American dominance in the Western Hemisphere, targeting drug cartels in Mexico and other regions as sources of violence and terrorism.
Overall, the excerpts paint a picture of a president confident in his economic record while positioning himself against political opponents and external threats, all wrapped in patriotic rhetoric about liberty and independence.