In a notable shift from his previous addresses to Congress, President Donald Trump is now asserting his authority to enact significant changes without seeking approval from lawmakers. Trump has taken unilateral actions such as imposing taxes on imports, deporting undocumented immigrants, reducing federal workforce, and freezing approved spending. This departure from seeking congressional approval marks a change in Trump’s leadership style as he navigates governing without relying on legislative support.

During his first term, Trump’s speeches evolved from hopeful rhetoric in 2017 to a more divisive tone in 2020, where he labeled Democrats as socialists and downplayed the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. In 2017, Trump emphasized unity and strength, highlighting civil rights and promising bold initiatives to address crime, border security, tax cuts, and economic revival. However, the effectiveness of some of these measures, such as tariffs on iconic American companies like Harley-Davidson, came into question as stock prices fluctuated.

In subsequent State of the Union addresses, Trump touted legislative victories like the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in 2018, which aimed to boost the economy and create more opportunities for Americans. Despite facing challenges from a Democratic-majority House in 2019, Trump called for bipartisan cooperation while also urging against investigations into his administration. By his 2020 address, Trump took on a more partisan tone, focusing on the economy’s strength under his leadership and warning against a “socialist takeover” by Democrats.

Overall, Trump’s addresses to Congress reflect his evolving leadership style, shifting priorities, and the political dynamics during his presidency.