President Donald Trump gave his first address to congress on Tuesday, February 28th. The speech was an hour-long poetic symphony encompassing an array of issues. In case you missed his speech here’s what you need to know:
1.”While we may be a nation divided on policies, we are a country that stands united in condemning hate and evil in all its very ugly forms”- President Trump
Trump opened his speech with a bang as he condemned the people outlashing against the Jewish communities. For those that are unaware of these anti-semitic threats, there has been violence, vandalism, and even bomb threats at Jewish centers and schools in over 33 states. Trump also sent his condolences to the two immigrants who were shot in a bar in Kansas. After receiving a lot of negative publicity for his immigration ban and other so called racist remarks, this is a huge step in the right direction for the President.
2. Renewal of the American spirit
Trump had a fairly rocky start as the President, but his speech seemed to light a beacon of hope as he described the idea of a renewal of American spirit. “I am asking all citizens to embrace this renewal of the American spirit. I am asking all members of Congress to join me in dreaming big, and bold, and daring things for our country. I am asking everyone watching tonight to seize this moment. Believe in yourselves. Believe in your future. And believe, once more, in America,” said Trump. Most Presidents will make a similar kind of remark, but none to the extent that Trump did during his speech. Even though these statements are extremely patriotic and bold, they should not be shocking since Trump has always put America and its citizens first.
3. Positive Reviews
This in a sense ties along with the American spirit because people love to hear and fantasize about good things. Many people have also proclaimed that this was a completely new Donald Trump.The fact that he was able speak eloquently with grace, care, and respect shocked the nation. Trump’s speech was a complete 180 turn from his rough start as President, and people loved the positive vibes. Of course there were some who criticized the speech, but overall people enjoyed it.
4. Fact Check
Trump has continuously been under attack for stating false reports and this trend repeated itself during his address. For instance, Trump claimed that 94 million Americans are out of jobs or out of the US labor force, however people have reported that this statement is inaccurate. 44 million people are retired, 15.4 million are disabled, and another 15.5 million are students. Other controversy raged over Obamacare, deportations, murder cases, and corporate taxes. Trump is not the first President to make false statement, but when he does the media makes sure the public is aware of it. The big take away from here is to always double check the facts. Unfortunately, this was a huge negative for Trump’s overall good speech.
5. “Ryan’s legacy is etched into eternity”- President Trump
The most emotional part of the speech emerged as Trump personally paid tribute to Carryn Owens, the wife of the fallen Navy Seal William “Ryan” Owens. Ryan Owens, a Senior Chief Petty Officer, was killed on a mission in Yemen a few weeks back with the cause of death still unknown. Trump very eloquently paid his respects to Carryn Owens and her family and friends. This was followed up a standing ovation, easily the longest I have seen. Carryn Owens and Trumps tribute to her was definitely the highlight and most talked about part of the speech.
Trump discussed many more issues throughout his speech than five mentioned above including Obamacare, the southern border, immigration, and the economy. He also appeared to have a better and well thought out plan for the future. During this time of controversy and reform, Trump reached for inspiration and made America seem a little more bright.
