Trump Declares War on 'Wokeness' in Congressional Address

The President's early actions include imposing new tariffs, potentially igniting a trade war with major allies.

In his address to Congress late last night, President Trump declared that his administration is “just getting started,” unveiling a series of aggressive early initiatives aimed at bolstering the U.S. economy. Trump emphasized his recent actions, including the deportation of migrants and introducing tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China, which he views as crucial measures to reinforce American strength.

In a moment of in-depth reflection on current affairs, Trump did not shy away from blaming the Biden administration for high inflation and other pressing issues, framing his predecessor as responsible for the nation's economic struggles. He also launched a vehement attack on so-called "wokeness,” asserting that educational institutions are corrupting youth with progressive ideologies, particularly around gender and identity.

Just hours before his speech, Trump's tariffs on imports began to ripple through the economy, inciting fears of a potential trade war that could destabilize relations with the U.S.'s largest trading partners. As a direct response, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced plans for 25 percent tariffs on $20.5 billion worth of U.S. goods, while Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum warned that retaliatory measures could follow suit. “You're a very smart guy,” Trudeau noted, directing his comments to Trump, “But this is a very dumb thing to do.”

In a particularly controversial part of his address, Trump proclaimed, “Wokeness is trouble. Wokeness is bad,” assuring his supporters that its influence is waning. The implications of his remarks, particularly in terms of educational policies and cultural discourse, highlight the ongoing rift in American society.

As Trump forges ahead with his agenda, the nation finds itself at a crossroads, grappling with the economic and cultural ramifications of his administration's bold strategy. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court's recent ruling on the Environmental Protection Agency and ongoing health crises, such as a measles outbreak in West Texas, continue to challenge the administration’s public narrative and efficacy.