Speaking before Congress on March 4, President Donald Trump declared his administration’s first 43 days the most successful in history. “We have accomplished more in 43 days than most administrations did in four or eight years,” he stated, comparing his presidency to George Washington’s and claiming his leadership marked a “golden age” for America.
Trump criticized Democrats for their lack of enthusiasm, claiming, “I could cure the most devastating disease, and they still wouldn’t clap.” Many Democrats wore pink in protest, refusing to stand or applaud. He also blamed the Biden administration for soaring egg prices, instructing the Secretary of Agriculture to “fix the mess” without mentioning external factors like bird flu.
Highlighting wasteful government spending, Trump pointed to “$8 million for making mice transgender,” an item previously criticized by Republican Representative Nancy Mace. He reaffirmed his push for reciprocal tariffs, noting his superstition prevented him from enacting them on April 1, instead choosing April 2.
On foreign policy, Trump signaled a dramatic shift, stating it was time to “end the senseless war” between Ukraine and Russia. He read a letter from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressing a willingness to negotiate. “If you want to end wars, you have to talk to both sides,” Trump declared, hinting at ongoing discussions with Russia.
Trump reignited interest in acquiring Greenland, calling it “vital for national security” and stating, “We need Greenland, and we’ll get it one way or another.” His ambitions extended beyond Earth, promising to lead America to Mars and “far beyond.” However, he provided no clear plan, and NASA recently faced potential budget cuts under his administration.
Beyond the speech, Trump’s policies caused global ripples. His 25% tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China triggered immediate backlash, with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau calling the move “a very dumb thing to do” and announcing retaliatory tariffs. Mexico followed suit, planning countermeasures against American goods.
Trump’s relationship with Ukraine grew even more strained after abruptly cutting all U.S. aid. A heated Oval Office meeting with Zelenskyy on February 28 reportedly ended in a shouting match. Days later, Trump slammed Zelenskyy’s statement that peace was “very, very far away,” calling it “the worst statement that could have been made.”
With bold declarations and sweeping policy shifts, Trump’s congressional address set the stage for a turbulent political landscape at home and abroad.
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