President Donald Trump delivered a highly charged address to a joint session of Congress, marking his first such appearance since returning to office in January. The 100-minute speech, the longest ever by a U.S. president to lawmakers, outlined his vision for his second term amid applause from Republicans and sharp opposition from Democrats. Here are seven key moments from the night:
1. ‘Thank You, Elon’
Trump gave a special mention to billionaire adviser Elon Musk, whose government efficiency task force has spearheaded efforts to slash federal spending. Musk, attending the speech in a dark suit and blue tie, stood and acknowledged the recognition. Trump praised Musk’s cost-cutting initiatives but faced backlash from Democrats, who held up signs reading “Musk steals” and “false.”
2. Democrats Heckle, Trump Goads
The speech quickly turned contentious as Democrats interrupted Trump within minutes. Representative Al Green was escorted out for continuous heckling, while others displayed protest signs and staged a walkout. Trump, appearing to relish the confrontation, remarked, “There is absolutely nothing I can say to make them happy.”
3. An ‘Important Letter’ from Zelensky
Trump revealed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had sent him a letter expressing willingness to negotiate peace. The announcement followed Trump’s decision to pause all military aid to Ukraine, which had sparked controversy. The two leaders had a tense Oval Office meeting earlier, and a planned economic deal between the nations failed to materialize before the speech.
4. Trade War Tensions
Trump addressed recent tariff hikes on Mexico, Canada, and China, dismissing concerns of economic turmoil. While he assured Americans that any “disturbance” would be minimal, the lack of enthusiasm from some Republican lawmakers reflected internal divisions over his trade policies.
5. Blaming Biden for Inflation
Trump targeted his predecessor for rising egg prices, claiming Biden had mishandled inflation. Although inflation peaked in 2022, prices remain a concern, with only 33% of Americans approving of Trump’s cost-of-living policies, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll.
6. A Child’s Dream Fulfilled
In an emotional moment, Trump honored 13-year-old DJ Daniel, a brain cancer patient who aspired to be a policeman. DJ was sworn in as an honorary Secret Service officer, receiving a badge from Director Sean Curran, one of the agents who protected Trump during the July assassination attempt.
7. Wildlife Refuge Renamed for Murder Victim
Trump announced that a Texas wildlife refuge had been renamed in honor of Jocelyn Nungaray, a 12-year-old murder victim. Her mother, Alexis, was present as a guest of First Lady Melania Trump. The move aligned with Trump’s push for stricter immigration policies, despite reports that deportations under his administration have not yet surpassed Biden-era numbers.
Trump’s address set the stage for a turbulent political year, as his administration aggressively pursues policy shifts amid ongoing partisan battles.
