In a marathon 99-minute session with Congress on March 4, 2025, President Donald Trump delivered what was marked by many as a theatrical and potent touchstone of his presidency.
The Daily Mail reported that the address was notable not only for its length but also for its mix of bold policy declarations and stark partisan commentary.
The speech was recorded as the longest presidential address to the U.S. Congress and included a wide range of subject matters, from significant achievements to future ambitions.
Trump emphasized the revival of the "American Dream," claiming unparalleled progress under his administration, bolstered by control of both the House and Senate.
His remarks punctuated a series of policy launches and updates, including the establishment of a new Department of Government Efficiency, set to be led by business magnate Elon Musk. The initiatives spanned contentious issues like ending diversity programs and placing stringent limits on transgender athletes in sports.
During one of the most highly anticipated moments of his speech, Trump discussed the capture of a key figure from the 2021 Kabul airport bombing, alongside plans to expand U.S. mineral production and establish an Office of Shipbuilding.
His vision extended to the cosmos, promising to plant the American flag on Mars, signaling ambitious goals for his next term in office.
The address, however, was not devoid of its detractors and dramatic moments. Democrats showcased their disapproval through protests and walkouts, with figures like Representatives Al Green and Melanie Stansbury making headlines.
The Democratic women in attendance, all dressed in pink, held up protest signs throughout Trump’s speech.
This partisanship was mirrored by responses to the speech, with an exclusive snap poll by J.L. Partners for DailyMail.com indicating that 57% of viewers approved of Trump's address. The survey, involving 774 participants, suggested a predominantly Republican viewer base, reflecting the division in national sentiment.
Politics aside, the speech was strategically punctuated with moments designed for television. Trump introduced a 13-year-old boy, honoring him as an honorary Secret Service agent, which resonated as a touching gesture among the audience.
This was among several efforts cited by pollster James Johnson as reasons the speech was perceived not just as confident and optimistic, but surprisingly caring.
However, Johnson noted, "And the public did not feel it was a unifying speech: they called it divisive, and felt that Trump was more incendiary than the protesting Democrats on the House floor." Despite these divisions, many respondents reported leaving the speech with a more positive outlook on America's future.
Vice President J.D. Vance and House Speaker Mike Johnson were present, together with notable attendees such as Elon Musk and Trump's family members including Jared Kushner, Ivanka Trump, and Melania Trump. This high-profile audience underscored the importance of the event within the political calendar.
Critiques of Trump's speech extended to his direct attacks on political predecessors and other parties, which illuminated the ongoing contentious nature of current American politics.
Trump himself admitted the deep partisan divide, reflected in statements during his speech, recognizing that nothing he could propose would garner the approval of the Democrats present.
Despite these challenges, Trump’s rhetoric remained steadfast. He declared, "The people elected me to do the job, and I am doing it," emphasizing his commitment to fulfilling his promises and furthering his policy agenda amidst widespread scrutiny and opposition.