Trump elicits tears, ovations in speech
A measured, on-script President Trump — in a moment many are calling his most presidential — prompted a massive ovation by singling out a tearful war widow’s sacrifice for the nation and tried to bring together a contentious Congress by asking them to join him in “dreaming big and bold and daring things for our country.”
In his speech’s most emotional moment, Trump honored Carryn Owens, the widow of U.S. Navy Senior Chief William “Ryan” Owens, killed during a January raid in Yemen. The weeping widow, clutching her hands and looking heavenward with overwhelming emotion, mouthed the words “Thank you,” and received a standing ovation from Congress that lasted more than two minutes.
“Ryan laid down his life for his friends, for his country and for our freedom,” Trump said. “We will never forget him. … To those allies who wonder what kind of friend America will be, look no further than the heroes who wear our uniform.”
Owens’ presence last night stood in contrast to the fallen sailor’s father, who refused to meet Trump, criticized his past remarks and demanded an investigation into his son’s death.
Trump also recognized the family members of people he said were killed by illegal immigrants, who were among his invited guests last night.
Sticking to a carefully crafted speech, Trump pushed his plans for a merit-based immigration system, a $1 trillion infrastructure improvement program and tax credits to help Americans buy health insurance. “I am asking everyone watching tonight to seize this moment and believe in yourselves, believe in your future and believe once more in America,” Trump said in his first address to a joint session of Congress.
Trump’s more presidential tone was a dramatic turnaround from the dark and frightful assessment of America he laid out during his inaugural address just over a month ago.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell told CNN that for many people who weren’t necessarily his supporters, “Donald Trump did indeed become presidential tonight.”
Trump proclaimed in the address to Congress that “a new chapter of American greatness is now beginning,” then made promises ranging from bringing back “millions of jobs” to deporting gang members and drug dealers.
Although he’s faced a relentless onslaught of criticism from Democrats since even before taking the oath of office, Trump tried to reach across the aisle, calling on both parties to come together to replace Obamacare and make child care more accessible, as well as other proposals.
“Our citizens deserve this and so much more,” Trump said. “So why not join forces to finally get it done? On this and so many other things, Democrats and Republicans should get together and unite for the good of our country.”
Trump also called education “the civil rights issue of our time” and demanded funds for school choice for “disadvantaged youth.”
After taking heat for either being too slow or not forceful enough to condemn acts of hatred, Trump opened his speech condemning vandalism at Jewish centers and the shooting of two Indian men in Kansas City.
“While we may be a nation divided on policies, we are a country that stands united in condemning hate and evil in all its forms,” Trump said.
Politico reported that tensions heading in were so high that House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi and other Democratic leaders have been urging members to remain calm during Trump’s speech.