WASHINGTON, D.C. – President Donald Trump delivered his first joint address to Congress since beginning his second term, outlining his administration’s ambitious policies on immigration, the economy, and national security. The speech, which was frequently interrupted by standing ovations from Republican lawmakers, emphasized his administration’s swift action in implementing the America First agenda.
“America is back!” Trump declared at the beginning of his address, citing record-low illegal border crossings, new tariffs, energy policy shifts, and government spending cuts as key achievements within his first six weeks in office.
Border Security & Immigration
Trump highlighted his administration’s crackdown on illegal immigration, emphasizing the immediate impact of the Laken Riley Act, which mandates the detention of illegal immigrants charged with or convicted of a crime. The president touted a dramatic decrease in border crossings and the Mexican government’s cooperation in curbing fentanyl trafficking as evidence of his administration’s success.
Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) commended Trump’s approach, stating, “We have begun securing the border. People attempting to cross the border illegally is way down. We’re sending back criminals who came here illegally and committed a crime. The Mexican government is finally helping to stop the flow of fentanyl across the U.S.-Mexican border because of President Trump’s pressure.”
Economic Policy & Tax Reform
Trump addressed economic concerns, promising to lower energy costs by expanding domestic oil, gas, and mineral production. He also pushed for tariffs on China and Canada and called on Congress to make tax cuts permanent while eliminating taxes on tips, overtime, and Social Security benefits.
Senator John Kennedy (R-LA) voiced strong support for Trump’s economic plans, saying, “President Trump has given us a blueprint. Now, it’s going to be up to Congress to ensure that these changes last. I’m going to do everything within my power to help permanently get rid of wasteful spending, renew the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, rebuild our military, and secure our border for generations to come.”
Kennedy also praised Trump’s focus on cutting government waste, stating, “President Trump and his team have uncovered billions of dollars in wasteful spending—I call it spending porn—including the government’s erroneous payments to deceased people.”
Energy & Inflation
Trump addressed inflation concerns, promising to expand domestic energy production and reverse policies that restricted new oil and gas leases, pipeline development, and power plant operations.
Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) celebrated Trump’s vision for economic renewal, stating, “In just over one month, President Trump has taken action to dramatically decrease border crossings, deport criminal illegal aliens, bring down fuel costs, reshore American jobs and industries, invite hundreds of billions of dollars in new investment, and reestablish peace and stability around the world.”
Government Efficiency & Spending Cuts
A major component of Trump’s speech was the creation of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which he said has already cut billions in federal spending. He highlighted the elimination of wasteful federal programs, including progressive nonprofit funding, foreign aid misuse, and redundant government grants.
Trump’s plan to balance the federal budget drew applause from Republicans, who have long sought to rein in government spending.
Looking Ahead
While Trump’s approval rating remains around 48%, his speech reinforced his commitment to delivering on key campaign promises. His policies continue to receive strong support from Louisiana lawmakers, who see his administration’s actions as critical to economic and national security improvements.
“The American Dream is still alive!” Cassidy declared following the speech. “We will do everything in our power to protect and strengthen it. I am looking forward to continuing to work with President Trump to advance a Pro-America agenda to renew the American Dream.”
As Trump continues his aggressive policy implementation, Louisiana legislators appear ready to work alongside the administration to enact permanent reforms in border security, tax policy, government spending, and energy production—key issues that impact the state’s economy and workforce.
Conclusion
With Trump’s aggressive first-term pace replicated in his second, the next few months will be critical in determining the long-term impact of his administration’s economic and immigration policies. Louisiana’s congressional delegation remains firmly behind the president, working to ensure his policies lead to lasting change for businesses and workers across the state.
The Center Square contributed to this report.