During a historic 100-minute speech to Congress, President Trump highlighted the accomplishments of his administration. Meanwhile, Democrats staged unprecedented protests, which led to the removal of Texas Representative Al Green from the chamber. Trump received Republican support for his contentious new tariffs on China, Canada, and Mexico, which alarmed the market. Even though the leadership called for decorum, Democrats showed their opposition in public by holding protest signs, wearing symbolic colors, and walking out.
Historic Address Amid Partisan Tension
President Donald Trump delivered his first address to Congress of his second term, proclaiming America’s resurgence while facing unprecedented opposition from Democratic lawmakers. The 100-minute speech, the longest presidential address to Congress in modern history, showcased Trump’s priorities for his administration while highlighting the deep partisan divide in Washington. Throughout the address, Trump emphasized his administration’s early accomplishments and outlined ambitious plans for economic revival and national security.
In a bold declaration that set the tone for his speech, Trump told lawmakers and the American public: “To my fellow citizens, America is back. Our country is on the verge of a comeback the likes of which the world has never witnessed and perhaps will never witness again.” He later added, “From that moment on, it has been nothing but swift and unrelenting action to usher in the greatest and most successful era in the history of our country. We have accomplished more in 43 days than most administrations accomplish in 4 years or 8 years—and we are just getting started.”
"That wasn’t a speech designed to 'own the libs' but to obliterate them. The split screens produced by President Donald Trump’s address to the joint session of Congress were devastating."https://t.co/UaQSUmfaZr
— Peter Laffin (@petermlaffin) March 5, 2025
Democratic Protest and Disruption
The address was marked by unprecedented Democratic opposition, with many lawmakers staging protests throughout the proceedings. The most dramatic moment came when Rep. Al Green (D-Texas) was removed from the chamber after repeatedly shouting “no mandate” during Trump’s speech. Speaker Mike Johnson commanded Green to “take your seat” before having him escorted out, a rare move during a presidential address that underscored the exceptional partisan tension.
“There is absolutely nothing I can do to make them happy or to make them stand, or smile or applaud,” Trump remarked during his speech, acknowledging the visible Democratic opposition. Many Democratic women wore white and pink as symbols of protest, while some members of the Congressional Black Caucus wore black. Several Democrats also displayed signs reading “Save Medicaid” and “Musk Steals” during the address, defying House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries’ plea to “maintain decorum in the House.”
"We've come accustomed to that chamber being incredibly divided," @JonKarl tells @LinseyDavis, detailing President Trump's address to joint Congress. pic.twitter.com/kSLpeblnBi
— ABC News Live (@ABCNewsLive) March 5, 2025
Economic Agenda and Tariff Controversy
Central to Trump’s address was his economic vision, including the announcement of new tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China. “Other countries have used tariffs against us for decades, and now it’s our turn to start using them against those other countries,” Trump stated, defending the controversial policy that has already caused market turmoil and divided even Republican lawmakers. The Nasdaq Composite has seen a significant decline since the announcement, raising economic concerns.
“Among my very highest priorities is to rescue our economy and get dramatic and immediate relief to working families,” Trump told Congress, outlining his tax agenda that includes cutting taxes on tips and overtime while urging Congress to extend his 2017 tax cuts. Economic analysts estimate these proposals could cost between $5 trillion and $11.2 trillion over the next decade, adding to concerns about fiscal sustainability.
Foreign Policy and Ukraine Controversy
Trump’s foreign policy declarations caused particular concern among Democrats and some international allies. He announced the pause of military aid to Ukraine, prompting some lawmakers to wear blue and gold colors in solidarity with the embattled nation. Trump suggested a different approach to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, stating: “Simultaneously, 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 made waves by reiterating his calls to bring the Panama Canal and Greenland under U.S. control and praised billionaire Elon Musk for his role in downsizing the federal workforce and cutting foreign aid. In addressing domestic cultural issues, Trump declared, “Wokeness is bad. It’s gone,” while criticizing “transgender ideology” and calling for an end to diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, receiving enthusiastic applause from Republican lawmakers.