President Donald Trump’s recent address to Congress received mixed reactions from voters in a CNN focus group in the Philadelphia suburbs. Supporters of Trump, particularly those who backed him in the 2024 election against Kamala Harris, viewed his speech positively. In contrast, Democratic voters expressed criticism, feeling that Trump’s speech was divisive and failed to address key economic concerns.

Retired Air National Guard officer Carolyn Debuque, a Republican supporter of Trump, praised the president’s speech as “very positive,” especially highlighting his recent tariffs on imports from China, Canada, and Mexico. On the other hand, Democrats like Dr. Imogene Taylor-Kelly and Sheri Ratner were critical of Trump’s speech, citing concerns about inflation and the need for more focus on economic issues affecting Americans.

Despite differing opinions, all participants agreed that they did not appreciate Trump’s attempt to blame former President Joe Biden for the high price of eggs, with one participant pointing out that neither president was responsible for an avian flu outbreak affecting egg production.

While some voters appreciated Trump’s message of unity, others, like customer service worker Joe Donahue, emphasized the importance of bipartisan cooperation. Donahue highlighted the need for the president to reach across the aisle and work with Democrats, acknowledging the current political divide highlighted during Trump’s speech.

The reactions from this diverse group of voters underscore the polarizing nature of Trump’s address and the ongoing challenges in finding common ground in American politics.