Donald Trump leaned into his reality TV persona in his record-breaking speech to Congress, the longest-ever delivered by a U.S. president. For one hour and 40 minutes, he switched between taunting his opponents, rallying his base, and creating emotional, made-for-TV moments. As he entered the House chamber, Republicans applauded and Trump walked slowly down the middle aisle, shaking hands. Democratic Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury of New Mexico quietly waved a sign that read, “This is not normal,” before a Republican lawmaker grabbed it away—an early indication of what was to come.
Trump’s address, directed to the whole country, had the feel of a campaign rally instead of a call for unity. His shots at adversaries brought standing ovations and “USA! USA!” chants from Republicans but only muted, seated responses from Democrats.
Some of the Democrats left during the speech. Representative Jasmine Crockett of Texas showed a “Resist” emblazoned on the back of a t-shirt, and there were some who made fashion statements expressing their opposition to Trump’s stand on women’s rights, wearing pink.
Surprise Moments
Trump, the self-styled showman, staged dramatic moments from the stage. He awarded a 13-year-old cancer patient honorary status as a Secret Service agent. In yet another dramatic reveal, he told a student in the crowd—but one who looked aghast—that he had been accepted at West Point.
Democrats Show Solidarity with Ukraine
In a symbolic display of support for Ukraine after an uncomfortable White House faceoff between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Democratic congress members turned to solidarity gestures. A good number sported scarves, ties, or blue-and-yellow ribbons pinned on lapels.
Though the speech was predicted to pack a full house, some Democrats had already announced that they would be absent, and a constant flow of legislators departed as the speech dragged on. In the gallery was Elon Musk, the billionaire who shares Trump’s commitment to reducing federal bureaucracy. Although a spectator this evening, Musk still drew attention, particularly when Trump called for applause for him, recognizing the impact of his financial support on the Republican’s victory.
Hours prior to the speech, demonstrators gathered outside the Capitol with signs that said “Stand up to tyranny” and “Musk must go.” Apparently speaking to critics, Trump proclaimed, “We’re just getting started.”
