Immigration – Trump Declares Border Gains in State Address
Immigration – President Donald Trump used his State of the Union address on Tuesday night to deliver an upbeat assessment of his administration’s performance, declaring that the United States has regained global respect and achieved what he described as significant progress across several key areas.
Speaking before lawmakers and invited guests, Trump framed his first year in office as a period of rapid change. He credited his administration with tightening border controls, reducing inflation, and improving public safety, presenting the past months as a decisive break from previous leadership.
Border Enforcement and Immigration Claims
Early in his speech, the President turned to immigration, calling it one of his administration’s most notable achievements. He stated that in the nine months since he took office, no unauthorized migrants had been admitted into the country.
Trump said the administration remains committed to legal immigration while emphasizing stricter border security. According to his remarks, the flow of fentanyl across the southern border has declined by 56 percent over the past year. He also pointed to what he described as a historic drop in the national murder rate, calling it the largest single-year decrease on record and the lowest level seen in more than a century.
The administration has intensified deportation efforts over the past year, including the removal of undocumented immigrants from several countries. Officials say the approach is aimed at strengthening border control and reinforcing existing immigration laws.
Economic Indicators and Inflation Trends
Turning to the economy, Trump highlighted what he characterized as a sharp reversal in inflation. He criticized the previous administration under President Joe Biden, arguing that inflation had reached historic highs before his term began.
According to Trump, core inflation has fallen to its lowest level in more than five years. He cited figures from the final quarter of 2025, noting that inflation had dropped to 1.7 percent. The President also focused on fuel prices, saying gasoline, which had climbed above six dollars per gallon in some states, has now fallen below $2.30 in most parts of the country. In certain areas, he added, prices were as low as $1.99 per gallon, referencing a recent visit to Iowa where he said he saw even lower rates.
Trump described these economic changes as evidence that his policies are delivering measurable results. He told lawmakers that further improvements are expected in the coming months.
Broader Themes of Governance
Throughout the address, Trump praised his administration’s direction, calling the current period a transformative chapter in American history. He said the country is experiencing a revival and pledged that the progress achieved so far would not be reversed.
In addition to policy matters, the President briefly acknowledged national achievements beyond politics, including the American hockey team’s Olympic gold medal victory, which he cited as a source of national pride.
Looking Toward the 250th Anniversary
The speech also looked ahead to 2026, when the United States will commemorate 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The milestone, often referred to as the Semiquincentennial, marks two and a half centuries since the thirteen colonies declared independence from Great Britain.
Trump described the anniversary as an opportunity for reflection and renewal, saying the country’s founding ideals continue to guide its future. He framed the upcoming celebration as a moment to recognize the nation’s history while preparing for the next phase of growth.
As the address concluded, the President reiterated his confidence in the country’s direction, maintaining that the policies introduced during his first year have set the stage for sustained economic stability and strengthened national security.