Lawmakers Hail Trump’s Joint Address as 'America is Back'

Washington D.C. - President Donald Trump’s joint address to Congress on Tuesday night became a lightning rod for both praise and criticism, with Republican lawmakers enthusiastically declaring that “America is back,” while Democrats dismissed the address as “bizarre.”

House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., couldn’t contain his excitement, calling the speech “phenomenal.” He highlighted Trump’s accomplishments in his first six weeks in office and praised his vision for the future, saying it’s all about getting the country “back on track.”

The speech, which was peppered with standing ovations from Republicans, also included moments of tension as Democratic lawmakers chose to remain seated during key segments. Some GOP senators, including Ted Cruz of Texas and Mike Lee of Utah, described the address as “fantastic” and “outstanding,” respectively. Meanwhile, Democratic Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester of Delaware offered a starkly different take, labeling the entire affair as “bizarre.”

One particularly emotional moment came when DJ Daniel, a 13-year-old cancer survivor and guest of the president, received a standing ovation. Republican lawmakers were quick to criticize their Democratic counterparts for not joining in. Sen. Katie Britt, R-Ala., expressed her disappointment, saying, “It was heartbreaking to see some not stand and show support for a boy who overcame so much.”

Sen. Eric Schmitt, R-Mo., echoed the sentiment, saying, “The Democrats really embarrassed themselves. They couldn’t even stand for DJ, who survived cancer.” Ouch. That’s not the look you want, guys.

On the flip side, Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., wasn’t impressed with the speech, offering a dismissive “not much” when asked for his thoughts. Meanwhile, Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., critiqued Trump for spending more time discussing topics like the Panama Canal and Greenland than addressing tangible issues like reducing costs for Americans.

Despite the criticism, Trump’s confidence was evident. Rep. Mike Collins, R-Ga., praised the president’s ability to connect with the American people, saying, “He knew his mission and communicated it clearly.” Collins also pointed out that Trump had recapped both his campaign promises and his accomplishments in office so far.

The address wasn’t without drama, as Democratic Rep. Al Green of Texas interrupted the proceedings and was eventually removed from the chamber on orders from Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La. The interruptions underscored the deep partisan divide that characterized the night.

Sen. Bernie Moreno, R-Ohio, summed up the Republican mood, declaring, “America is back. It’s how he started, it’s how he ended. Great pride. Look at the difference between that and Joe Biden.” He also took a jab at Democrats, calling their behavior “super embarrassing” for not clapping for DJ Daniel.

Love him or hate him, Trump’s speech managed to dominate the night, leaving both sides of the aisle buzzing. Whether “America is back” or just taking a detour likely depends on who you ask.