Trump Defends Record in National Address, Highlights Border Security and Economic Growth
U.S. President Donald Trump delivered a televised address to the American people on Wednesday night, defending his administration’s performance and emphasizing border security, the economy, and foreign policy.
Trump claimed that his administration inherited a country in “chaos” and has since set it on a path to reform. Criticizing the policies of the previous administration, he said U.S. borders were effectively open, allowing millions to enter, a situation that he argued must never be repeated.
Calling past trade deals “failures,” Trump asserted that his administration has enacted more positive changes than any before it. He said he is fighting for the interests of the American people and has achieved results that he described as unexpected.
Focusing on immigration, Trump claimed that U.S. borders are now the strongest they have ever been and that the deportation of migrants accused of crimes has increased. He also cited a decline in drug trafficking as justification for American military action in the Caribbean region.
On foreign policy, Trump said the U.S. possesses the most powerful military in the world and has ended several conflicts. He mentioned Iran’s nuclear program and developments in Gaza, though offered no specific details and used general language.
Trump also announced the return of Israeli hostages and the repatriation of the bodies of those killed, claiming peace had been achieved in the Middle East—claims that have faced criticism in light of the on-the-ground realities.
Turning to the economy, the president spoke of significant investments and job creation, promising that the benefits of tax cuts would become apparent in the coming year. He described the United States as the most attractive destination for investment.
Trump revealed that over one million U.S. service members would receive financial bonuses before Christmas. He simultaneously accused major health insurance companies of amassing wealth and said he was confronting them.
In another part of his remarks, Trump announced the appointment of a new Federal Reserve chair who supports substantial interest rate cuts. He sharply criticized the Democrats, blaming them for inflation and housing difficulties, and promised new reforms in the housing market.
Concluding his speech, Trump referenced financial misconduct in Minnesota and the transfer of funds to the al-Shabaab group in Somalia, claiming that millions of dollars had been stolen and that his administration would put an end to such practices—a claim presented without documentation or detailed evidence.
