Trump declares ‘America is back’ in first congressional address since return to power

U.S. President Donald Trump delivered his first address to Congress on Tuesday since returning to office, declaring “America is back” after reshaping U.S. foreign policy, imposing new tariffs, and overseeing a major reduction in the federal workforce.

The speech, which lasted 100 minutes, was the longest presidential address to Congress in modern history, according to The American Presidency Project.

Market turmoil and tariff controversy

Trump’s remarks came amid market volatility, following his decision to impose sweeping tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China.

The move has sparked investor concerns, with the Nasdaq Composite falling over 9% from its December 16 record high. The president, however, remained firm in his stance, stating, “Tariffs are about making America rich again and making America great again.”

Trump also announced plans to introduce additional tariffs on April 2, further raising concerns about economic stability. “Other countries have used tariffs against us for decades, and now it’s our turn,” he said.

However, many Republican lawmakers refrained from applauding, signaling internal divisions within the party on trade policy.

Foreign policy shifts and Ukraine aid suspension

World leaders closely watched Trump’s speech, which followed his decision to halt military aid to Ukraine. The pause has raised alarms in Kyiv and among European allies, who fear the move strengthens Russia’s position in the ongoing war.

Trump, however, suggested the decision was part of broader negotiations, stating, “We’ve had serious discussions with Russia and have received strong signals that they are ready for peace. Wouldn’t that be beautiful?”

The president also briefly addressed the Middle East, reiterating his commitment to expanding the Abraham Accords but offering no new details on a path to peace.

Democratic walkout and political divisions

The speech, delivered in the House of Representatives, was met with protests from Democrats, many of whom walked out in defiance. Representative Al Green of Texas was ejected from the chamber after refusing to sit down. Other Democrats displayed signs reading “No King!” and “This Is NOT Normal.”

“I look at the Democrats in front of me, and I realize there is absolutely nothing I can say to make them happy or to make them stand or smile or applaud,” Trump remarked during the speech.

Economic and tax policies

Trump outlined his economic vision, calling for a $4.5 trillion package that includes an extension of his 2017 tax cuts, tighter border security, and large-scale deportations.

He also reiterated his goal of balancing the federal budget, despite proposals that analysts estimate could add more than $5 trillion to the national debt.

The Republican tax plan seeks to eliminate taxes on tips, overtime pay, and Social Security benefits, a move that could cost between $5 trillion and $11.2 trillion over the next decade, according to the nonpartisan Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget.

Praise for Musk and government downsizing

Trump credited billionaire Elon Musk and the newly established Department of Government Efficiency for cutting over 100,000 federal jobs and saving billions in taxpayer funds. Musk, who was seated in the gallery, received standing ovations from Republican lawmakers.

The president claimed that Musk had uncovered “hundreds of billions of dollars of fraud,” an assertion exceeding previously disclosed estimates.

Social policies and cultural issues

Trump touched on key conservative talking points, vowing to ban what he called “transgender ideology” and strengthen border security. He also announced that his administration had reduced illegal border crossings to their lowest levels in years.