In Christmas Speech, Trump Attacks Biden, Immigrants, and Critics

Donald Trump delivered a striking end-of-year address on Wednesday, surrounded by festive décor but channeling the spirit of Ebenezer Scrooge. The speech, lasting 20 minutes, focused less on holiday cheer and more on assigning blame.

Wearing a classic blue suit, white shirt, and red tie, Trump sharply criticized President Biden, past trade agreements, and immigrants, painting a grim picture of the nation. He claimed to have tackled “woke radicals” in schools and warned against Biden’s alleged policies on transgender issues and border security.

Trump also highlighted his economic achievements, promising a “warrior dividend” of $1,776 for 1.45 million US service members, funded by tariff revenue—a move he touted without addressing its inflationary impact. Gas prices, he claimed, were dropping “fast,” though official data shows only a minor decline.

The president reiterated his foreign policy victories, claiming to have ended eight wars and brought historic peace to the Middle East. He unveiled the White House “Walk of Fame,” including plaques criticizing Barack Obama and Joe Biden, underscoring his pattern of defining himself through opponents.

Despite the festive setting, the address conveyed a sense of urgency and defensiveness. Trump ended by asking his chief of staff, Susie Wiles, how he performed, punctuating the moment with a swig of Diet Coke.

The speech highlighted Trump’s reliance on political rivals as targets, while holiday spirit and unity remained notably absent. For now, the president remains a controversial figure, blending self-praise, blame, and festive visuals in a uniquely Trumpian end-of-year address.