AP
Facing a divided Congress for the first time, President Donald Trump on Tuesday called on Washington to reject “the politics of revenge, resistance and retribution.” He warned emboldened Democrats that “ridiculous partisan investigations” into his administration and businesses could hamper a surging American economy.
Trump’s appeals for bipartisanship in his State of the Union address clashed with the rancorous atmosphere he has helped cultivate in the nation’s capital — as well as the desire of most Democrats to block his agenda during his next two years in office. Their opposition was on vivid display as Democratic congresswomen in the audience formed a sea of white in a nod to early 20th-century suffragettes.
Trump spoke at a critical moment in his presidency, staring down a two-year stretch that will determine whether he is re-elected or leaves office in defeat. His speech sought to shore up Republican support that had eroded slightly during the recent government shutdown and previewed a fresh defense against Democrats as they ready a round of investigations into every aspect of his administration.
“If there is going to be peace and legislation, there cannot be war and investigation,” he declared. Lawmakers in the cavernous House chamber sat largely silent.
Full Video:
Looming over the president’s address was a fast-approaching Feb. 15 deadline to fund the government and avoid another shutdown. Democrats have refused to acquiesce to his demands for a border wall, and Republicans are increasingly unwilling to shut down the government to help him fulfill his signature campaign pledge. Nor does the GOP support the president’s plan to declare a national emergency if Congress won’t fund the wall.
Wary of publicly highlighting those intraparty divisions, Trump made no mention of an emergency declaration in his remarks. He did offer a lengthy defense of his call for a border wall, declaring: “I will build it.” But he delivered no ultimatums about what it would take for him to sign legislation to keep the government open.
“I am asking you to defend our very dangerous southern border out of love and devotion to our fellow citizens and to our country,” he said, painting a dark and foreboding picture of the risks posed to Americans by illegal immigration.
Throughout his remarks, the 72-year-old Trump harkened back to moments of American greatness, celebrating the moon landing as astronaut Buzz Aldrin looked on from the audience and heralding the liberation of Europe from the Nazis.
In a poignant moment, Trump led the House chamber in singing happy birthday to Holocaust survivor Judah Samet , who also survived the Pittsburgh massacre a few months ago.
Samet gave a big smile and yelled “thank you” in response.
Trump’s guests for the speech included Anna Marie Johnson, a woman whose life sentence for drug offenses was commuted by the president, and Joshua Trump, a sixth-grade student from Wilmington, Delaware, who has been bullied over his last name. They sat with Melania Trump during the address.
Every Jew with some basic sechel and common sense sees this President as the savior of the USA. Hashem Bless him and give him 60% vote in 2020
Sincere patriot, who ran for office because he loves this nation. Best SOTU address in our times. Donald Trump will willl go into history as the greatest president of all time. Thank you Mr. President.
for a change we have a president who’s there for the country and not for his personal financial gain. But these crooks will do whatever they can to stop him from ruining their games
If you haven’t heard it’s worth the time. Probably one of the best State of the Union Addresses.
As a jew, I’m super proud of our President.
Give credit where credit is due..
יחי המלך👍👍👍
BS”D Brilliant breathtaking emotional speech, these hollywood types and politicians who call him stupid, no intelligence,have their heads buried in the sand
Nearly brought tears to my eyes, to see the POTUS showing such support for Jews, in front of the whole nation!
Most frum yidden don’t vote unfortunatly. If we would all register to vote we could turn things around. It’s simple
the best president in american history, love him!!!!
Yes it was a beautiful speech thank you mr. President
I had not previously heard that this officer took SEVEN bullets during his ultimately successful effort to take out the gunman.
Wonderful speech, right on point, Mr. President! I really choked up seeing the holocaust survivor right next to the USA soldier who liberated Dachau.
I am not sure if Jews realize that Trump is a big supporter of Israel. Hopefully they will do some research and see! Wonderful president.
Moshiach Now !