Incumbent US President Joe Biden, in his third and final State of the Union address before the 2024 US Presidential Elections, repeatedly slammed his Republican rival Donald Trump throughout his speech.

Calling out Trump over his claims of a rigged election and the Jan 6 US Capitol insurrection by his followers, Biden remarked, "You can't love the country only when you win".

He also touched upon a variety of topics, including the Israel-Hamas war, immigration, student loan debt and more. Here are the key takeaways from Joe Biden's 2024 State of the Union address.

<h2>Sweden joins&nbsp;NATO</h2>

At the beginning of his speech, Biden welcomed Sweden to the NATO bloc and said: "Welcome, welcome, welcome!"

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-to-draw-contrast-with-donald-trump-in-his-last-state-of-the-union-address-as-us-president-697790">Joe Biden to draw contrast with Donald Trump in his last State of the Union address as US President</a>

He acknowledged Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson's attendance during the address and said, "Mr Prime Minister, welcome to NATO, the strongest military alliance the world has ever known."

"Today, we've made NATO stronger than ever," he said.&nbsp;

<h2>On Putin and Ukraine-Russia war</h2>

Reiterating his appeals for military aid to Ukraine, Biden said Russian President Vladimir Putin will not stop at Ukraine, but that Kyiv can stop him "if we stand with Ukraine and provide the weapons it needs to defend itself. That is all Ukraine is asking. They are not asking for American soldiers."

"Overseas, Putin of Russia is on the march, invading Ukraine and sowing chaos throughout Europe and beyond.&nbsp;If anybody in this room thinks Putin will stop at Ukraine, I assure you, he will not," he warned.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-to-announce-gaza-port-construction-to-enable-aid-into-war-torn-palestinian-enclave-697753">US President Joe Biden to announce Gaza port construction to enable aid into war-torn Palestinian enclave</a>

He asserted that there were "no American soldiers at war in Ukraine. And I am determined to keep it that way," but said that the assistance Ukraine requires was "being blocked by those who want us to walk away from our leadership in the world."

"It wasn’t that long ago when a Republican President, Ronald Reagan, thundered, 'Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall'.&nbsp;Now, my predecessor, a former Republican President, tells Putin, 'Do whatever the hell you want.'&nbsp;A former American President actually said that,&nbsp;bowing down&nbsp;to a Russian leader."

Slamming Trump, he remarked, "It’s&nbsp;outrageous.&nbsp;It’s&nbsp;dangerous.&nbsp;It’s&nbsp;unacceptable."&nbsp;

<h2>On Israel-Hamas war</h2>

Talking about the crisis abroad, Biden said, "I know the last five months have been gut-wrenching for so many people, for the Israeli people, the Palestinian people, and so many here in America."

He pledged that he would not rest until all the Hamas hostages were back home.&nbsp;

Issuing a sharp directive to Israel's leaders, he told the warring nation to not hold up humanitarian aid to Palestinians for political purposes.

"Israel also has a fundamental responsibility to protect innocent civilians in Gaza."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-first-lady-and-alexei-navalnys-wife-decline-jill-bidens-invitation-to-state-of-the-union-address-697142">Ukraine's first lady and Alexei Navalny's wife decline Jill Biden's invitation to State of the Union address</a>

"This war has taken a greater toll on innocent civilians than all previous wars in Gaza combined," he said.

He also revealed that he would be directing the US military "to lead an emergency mission to establish a temporary pier in the Mediterranean on the Gaza coast that can receive large ships carrying food, water, medicine and temporary shelters."

However, he stressed that forces will not be deployed on the ground.

"No US boots will be on the ground," he said.&nbsp;

"This temporary pier would enable a massive increase in the amount of humanitarian assistance getting into Gaza every day. But Israel must also do its part," he added.

"Israel must allow more aid into Gaza and ensure that humanitarian workers aren’t caught in the crossfire."

He warned Israel's leadership that "humanitarian assistance cannot be a secondary consideration or a bargaining chip."

<h2>On Roe V. Wade</h2>

Biden made abortion rights a major focus of his State of the Union address, vowing to reinstate Roe versus Wade if given a Congress "that supports the right to choose."

Drawing a contrast with his "predecessor," he said, "My predecessor came to office determined to see Roe v. Wade overturned. He’s the reason it was overturned. In fact, he brags about it. Look at the chaos that has resulted." He did not mention Trump by name.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/state-of-the-union-live-biden-to-draw-contrast-with-trump-in-his-last-sotu-address-as-us-president-697793#">Watch | Biden's address 2024: Biden warns Putin that he will not bow down in his state address</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/state-of-the-union-live-biden-to-draw-contrast-with-trump-in-his-last-sotu-address-as-us-president-697793#" target="_blank"><img alt="" data-nimg="intrinsic" decoding="async" referrerpolicy="no-referrer" src="https://www.wionews.com/assets/images/twitter.svg?imwidth=64" srcset="/assets/images/twitter.svg?imwidth=32 1x, /assets/images/twitter.svg?imwidth=64 2x" /></a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bidens-address-2024-biden-warns-putin-that-he-will-not-bow-down-in-his-state-address-697824/embed" width="560"></iframe>

"My God, what freedoms will you take away next? In its decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court majority wrote the following, and with all due respect Justices, 'Women are not without—electoral or political power.' Excuse me, electoral or political power. You're about to realise how right we are about that.”

Biden emphasised his support of abortion rights and pledged to make them the law of the land if elected.

<h2>Republican response to Biden's State of the Union</h2>

US&nbsp;Senator Katie Britt of Alabama delivered the Republicans' formal response to President Joe&nbsp;Biden's State of the Union speech. She&nbsp;criticised&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;on issues like immigration and the state of the US economy as she delivered the GOP’s rebuttal to the State of the Union address.

"There is no doubt we’re at a crossroads and it doesn't have to be this way," said Britt, adding, "We all feel it. But here’s the good news: we the People are still in the driver’s seat. We get to decide whether our future will grow brighter, or whether we settle for an America in decline. Well, I know which choice our children deserve – and the choice the Republican Party is fighting for."

Incumbent US President Joe Biden, in his third and final State of the Union address before the 2024 US Presidential Elections, repeatedly slammed his Republican rival Donald Trump throughout his speech.

Incumbent US President Joe Biden, in his third and final State of the Union address before the 2024 US Presidential Elections, repeatedly slammed his Republican rival Donald Trump throughout his speech. Calling out Trump over his claims of a rigged election and the Jan 6 US Capitol insurrection by his followers, Biden remarked, "You can't love the country only when you win". He also touched upon a variety of topics, including the Israel-Hamas war, immigration, student loan debt and more. Here are the key takeaways from Joe Biden's 2024 State of the Union address. Sweden joins NATO At the beginning of his speech, Biden welcomed Sweden to the NATO bloc and said: "Welcome, welcome, welcome!" Also read | Joe Biden to draw contrast with Donald Trump in his last State of the Union address as US President He acknowledged Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson's attendance during the address and said, "Mr Prime Minister, welcome to NATO, the strongest military alliance the world has ever known." "Today, we've made NATO stronger than ever," he said. On Putin and Ukraine-Russia war Reiterating his appeals for military aid to Ukraine, Biden said Russian President Vladimir Putin will not stop at Ukraine, but that Kyiv can stop him "if we stand with Ukraine and provide the weapons it needs to defend itself. That is all Ukraine is asking. They are not asking for American soldiers." "Overseas, Putin of Russia is on the march, invading Ukraine and sowing chaos throughout Europe and beyond. If anybody in this room thinks Putin will stop at Ukraine, I assure you, he will not," he warned. Also read | US President Joe Biden to announce Gaza port construction to enable aid into war-torn Palestinian enclave He asserted that there were "no American soldiers at war in Ukraine. And I am determined to keep it that way," but said that the assistance Ukraine requires was "being blocked by those who want us to walk away from our leadership in the world." "It wasn’t that long ago when a Republican President, Ronald Reagan, thundered, 'Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall'. Now, my predecessor, a former Republican President, tells Putin, 'Do whatever the hell you want.' A former American President actually said that, bowing down to a Russian leader." Slamming Trump, he remarked, "It’s outrageous. It’s dangerous. It’s unacceptable." On Israel-Hamas war Talking about the crisis abroad, Biden said, "I know the last five months have been gut-wrenching for so many people, for the Israeli people, the Palestinian people, and so many here in America." He pledged that he would not rest until all the Hamas hostages were back home. Issuing a sharp directive to Israel's leaders, he told the warring nation to not hold up humanitarian aid to Palestinians for political purposes. "Israel also has a fundamental responsibility to protect innocent civilians in Gaza." Also read | Ukraine's first lady and Alexei Navalny's wife decline Jill Biden's invitation to State of the Union address "This war has taken a greater toll on innocent civilians than all previous wars in Gaza combined," he said. He also revealed that he would be directing the US military "to lead an emergency mission to establish a temporary pier in the Mediterranean on the Gaza coast that can receive large ships carrying food, water, medicine and temporary shelters." However, he stressed that forces will not be deployed on the ground. "No US boots will be on the ground," he said. "This temporary pier would enable a massive increase in the amount of humanitarian assistance getting into Gaza every day. But Israel must also do its part," he added. "Israel must allow more aid into Gaza and ensure that humanitarian workers aren’t caught in the crossfire." He warned Israel's leadership that "humanitarian assistance cannot be a secondary consideration or a bargaining chip." On Roe V. Wade Biden made abortion rights a major focus of his State of the Union address, vowing to reinstate Roe versus Wade if given a Congress "that supports the right to choose." Drawing a contrast with his "predecessor," he said, "My predecessor came to office determined to see Roe v. Wade overturned. He’s the reason it was overturned. In fact, he brags about it. Look at the chaos that has resulted." He did not mention Trump by name. Watch | Biden's address 2024: Biden warns Putin that he will not bow down in his state address "My God, what freedoms will you take away next? In its decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court majority wrote the following, and with all due respect Justices, 'Women are not without—electoral or political power.' Excuse me, electoral or political power. You're about to realise how right we are about that.” Biden emphasised his support of abortion rights and pledged to make them the law of the land if elected. Republican response to Biden's State of the Union US Senator Katie Britt of Alabama delivered the Republicans' formal response to President Joe Biden's State of the Union speech. She criticised Biden on issues like immigration and the state of the US economy as she delivered the GOP’s rebuttal to the State of the Union address. "There is no doubt we’re at a crossroads and it doesn't have to be this way," said Britt, adding, "We all feel it. But here’s the good news: we the People are still in the driver’s seat. We get to decide whether our future will grow brighter, or whether we settle for an America in decline. Well, I know which choice our children deserve – and the choice the Republican Party is fighting for."

Trump, Gaza war, Putin, and more: Key takeaways from Joe Biden's State of the Union address 2024

On Friday (Mar 8), US President Joe Biden delivered his third and final State of the Union (SOTU) address before the 2024 US Presidential elections. Amid the sea of audience present in the Capitol for this parliamentary custom were a number of congresswomen dressed in white. Why were they wearing outfits in this particular colour? Here's the answer.

<h2>White in a sea of colours</h2>

The white outfits served an important purpose. As per a statement released ahead of the SOTU address, the white outfits served the message of women's rights.&nbsp;

"Our message is clear: women must be able to access the health care they need to control their own lives and futures," said Democratic Women's Caucus (DWC) Chair Lois Frankel in the statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-gaza-war-putin-and-more-key-takeaways-from-joe-bidens-state-of-the-union-address-2024-697872">Trump, Gaza war, Putin, and more: Key takeaways from Joe Biden's State of the Union address 2024</a>

"That means women, not politicians, should be in charge of whether, when, and how to start or grow their families. That includes access to birth control, access to abortion, and access to IVF," added the statement.

Taking to X, formerly Twitter,&nbsp;Florida Rep. Kathy Castor wrote, "House Democratic women in suffragette white: We are standing up for your right to make your own health care decisions including abortion".

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🇺🇸 House Democratic women in suffragette white: We are standing up for your right to make your own health care decisions including abortion <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SOTU2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SOTU2024</a> <a href="https://t.co/7MKYLsyBIK">pic.twitter.com/7MKYLsyBIK</a>
— U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (@USRepKCastor) <a href="https://twitter.com/USRepKCastor/status/1765917881278026114?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The outfits, as per a Time report, were a nod&nbsp;to the colour of the suffragette movement. Similarly, in 2019 and 2020, the white outfits were a message of solidarity. In 2019, they served as "a declaration that women will not go back on our hard-earned right (to vote)".

In 2020, white was used by the DWC to "show their unity and a commitment to defending the rights of women and disenfranchised groups".

<h2>Women's rights in America</h2>

This year's message comes at a time when women's reproductive rights have come under fire in various states, and have become a hot-button political issue across America.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-to-draw-contrast-with-donald-trump-in-his-last-state-of-the-union-address-as-us-president-697790">Joe Biden to draw contrast with Donald Trump in his last State of the Union address in current term</a>

After the overturning of Roe V. Wade in 2022, several states across the country have severely limited abortion rights, and the recent 'embryos are babies' row in Alabama has further raised the question of how safe are women's reproductive rights.

<h2>Protests outside Capitol</h2>

As Biden appeared before the Congress, protesters gathered outside the Capitol with the messages: "Stop funding Israel", "Biden's legacy is genocide",&nbsp;and "Complete ceasefire now".

<figure><a id="image-6a0000" name="image-6a0000"></a></figure>

<img alt="Protesters block Pennsylvania Ave. during a pro-Palestinian demonstration near the U.S. Capitol in preparation for President Joe Biden's State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress, Thursday, March 7, 2024, in Washington (AP Photo/Luis M. Alvarez)" src="https://dims.apnews.com/dims4/default/3418eb5/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5000x3333+0+0/resize/599x399!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fassets.apnews.com%2Fb4%2F83%2Fbc6b420b4e848b9031232a2ae961%2Fap24068070536357.jpg" />

As per reports, about 150 protesters gathered&nbsp;on Pennsylvania Avenue, the road that connects the White House to the Capitol, ahead of the annual address, due to which Biden's motorcade&nbsp;took a detour.

(With inputs from agencies)

On Friday (Mar 8), US President Joe Biden delivered his third and final State of the Union (SOTU) address before the 2024 US Presidential elections. Amid the sea of audience present in the Capitol for this parliamentary custom were a number of congresswomen dressed in white.

On Friday (Mar 8), US President Joe Biden delivered his third and final State of the Union (SOTU) address before the 2024 US Presidential elections. Amid the sea of audience present in the Capitol for this parliamentary custom were a number of congresswomen dressed in white. Why were they wearing outfits in this particular colour? Here's the answer. White in a sea of colours The white outfits served an important purpose. As per a statement released ahead of the SOTU address, the white outfits served the message of women's rights. "Our message is clear: women must be able to access the health care they need to control their own lives and futures," said Democratic Women's Caucus (DWC) Chair Lois Frankel in the statement. Also read | Trump, Gaza war, Putin, and more: Key takeaways from Joe Biden's State of the Union address 2024 "That means women, not politicians, should be in charge of whether, when, and how to start or grow their families. That includes access to birth control, access to abortion, and access to IVF," added the statement. Taking to X, formerly Twitter, Florida Rep. Kathy Castor wrote, "House Democratic women in suffragette white: We are standing up for your right to make your own health care decisions including abortion". 🇺🇸 House Democratic women in suffragette white: We are standing up for your right to make your own health care decisions including abortion #SOTU2024 pic.twitter.com/7MKYLsyBIK — U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (@USRepKCastor) March 8, 2024 × The outfits, as per a Time report, were a nod to the colour of the suffragette movement. Similarly, in 2019 and 2020, the white outfits were a message of solidarity. In 2019, they served as "a declaration that women will not go back on our hard-earned right (to vote)". In 2020, white was used by the DWC to "show their unity and a commitment to defending the rights of women and disenfranchised groups". Women's rights in America This year's message comes at a time when women's reproductive rights have come under fire in various states, and have become a hot-button political issue across America. Also read | Joe Biden to draw contrast with Donald Trump in his last State of the Union address in current term After the overturning of Roe V. Wade in 2022, several states across the country have severely limited abortion rights, and the recent 'embryos are babies' row in Alabama has further raised the question of how safe are women's reproductive rights. Protests outside Capitol As Biden appeared before the Congress, protesters gathered outside the Capitol with the messages: "Stop funding Israel", "Biden's legacy is genocide", and "Complete ceasefire now". As per reports, about 150 protesters gathered on Pennsylvania Avenue, the road that connects the White House to the Capitol, ahead of the annual address, due to which Biden's motorcade took a detour. (With inputs from agencies)

Here's why Democratic congresswomen wore white to Biden's State of the Union address

State of the Union 2023:&nbsp;US President Joe Biden will address the joint session of Congress at the United States Capitol on Tuesday, 7 February. This will be his first address to a Republican-controlled House of Representatives since 2018. Joe Biden will become the 46th president of the United States to address the State of the Union. It will be Biden’s second State of the Union Address and his third speech to a joint session of the US Congress.

This session will be presided over by the House speaker, Kevin McCarhty, accompanied by Vice President, Kamala Harris, in her capacity as the President of the Senate.&nbsp;

Here is everything you need to know about the State of the Union address 2023:

<h2>When is the State of the Union address 2023?</h2>

President Biden will deliver his second address to the union on Tuesday, 7 February, at 9:00 pm EST (0200 GMT, Wednesday). He will deliver the speech in the chamber of the US House of Representatives to the 118th US Congress.&nbsp;

<h2>Why is the State of the Union address 2023 important?</h2>

The speech by Biden will be a way for him to address a larger national audience and will also start an unofficial campaign for his 2024 election campaign. According to the data provider Nielsen, an average of 38.2 million people watched the speech on US television last year.&nbsp;

<h2>Who will attend the State of the Union address 2023?</h2>

All the members of both the Democratic-controlled Senate and Republican-controlled House will attend the speech. Members of Biden’s cabinet, the armed forces and the Supreme Court will also attend the session.&nbsp;

<h2>How and where to watch the State of the Union address 2023?</h2>

To watch the State of the Union 2023 address live, one can visit the official website of the White House, WH.gov/sotu. The address can also be streamed on the official social media accounts of the White House on YouTube, Twitter and Facebook.&nbsp;

<h2>What can be expected from Joe Biden’s speech at the State of the Union 2023?</h2>

Here are some of the things that Biden is likely to say at today’s address:

1.&nbsp;Biden is likely to reiterate his calls for Congress to raise the debt limit without conditions.

2.&nbsp;Last year, Biden emphasized his opposition to the idea of defunding the police. In wake of the death of Tyre Nichols at the hands of Memphis police, Biden is likely to take a different note on police reforms.&nbsp;

3.&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war will also be a big part of Biden’s address, especially with Republicans sounding different notes on the flight.&nbsp;

4.&nbsp;He will likely talk about the strong US economy after a surprise job report released on Friday, that showed new 517,000 jobs have been added in the month of January.

<h2>Who will give the Republican response at the State of the Union address 2023?</h2>

Republicans have picked Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, who served as White House press secretary under Donald Trump, to deliver their response. That speech is generally delivered shortly after the president.

<h2>Who is the designated survivor of the State of the Union address 2023?</h2>

One person who does not attend is a single member of Biden's Cabinet who will be picked as a "designated survivor." That individual will be housed in a secure location and is tasked with taking over the government in case of a catastrophe that impairs the president and his other successors at the Capitol.

The designated survivor for this year's speech has not yet been announced. 
&nbsp;

State of the Union 2023: US President Joe Biden will address the joint session of Congress at the United States Capitol on Tuesday, 7 February. This will be his first address to a Republican-controlled House of Representatives since 2018.

State of the Union 2023: US President Joe Biden will address the joint session of Congress at the United States Capitol on Tuesday, 7 February. This will be his first address to a Republican-controlled House of Representatives since 2018. Joe Biden will become the 46th president of the United States to address the State of the Union. It will be Biden’s second State of the Union Address and his third speech to a joint session of the US Congress. This session will be presided over by the House speaker, Kevin McCarhty, accompanied by Vice President, Kamala Harris, in her capacity as the President of the Senate. Here is everything you need to know about the State of the Union address 2023: When is the State of the Union address 2023? President Biden will deliver his second address to the union on Tuesday, 7 February, at 9:00 pm EST (0200 GMT, Wednesday). He will deliver the speech in the chamber of the US House of Representatives to the 118th US Congress. Why is the State of the Union address 2023 important? The speech by Biden will be a way for him to address a larger national audience and will also start an unofficial campaign for his 2024 election campaign. According to the data provider Nielsen, an average of 38.2 million people watched the speech on US television last year. Who will attend the State of the Union address 2023? All the members of both the Democratic-controlled Senate and Republican-controlled House will attend the speech. Members of Biden’s cabinet, the armed forces and the Supreme Court will also attend the session. How and where to watch the State of the Union address 2023? To watch the State of the Union 2023 address live, one can visit the official website of the White House, WH.gov/sotu. The address can also be streamed on the official social media accounts of the White House on YouTube, Twitter and Facebook. What can be expected from Joe Biden’s speech at the State of the Union 2023? Here are some of the things that Biden is likely to say at today’s address: 1. Biden is likely to reiterate his calls for Congress to raise the debt limit without conditions. 2. Last year, Biden emphasized his opposition to the idea of defunding the police. In wake of the death of Tyre Nichols at the hands of Memphis police, Biden is likely to take a different note on police reforms. 3. Russia-Ukraine war will also be a big part of Biden’s address, especially with Republicans sounding different notes on the flight. 4. He will likely talk about the strong US economy after a surprise job report released on Friday, that showed new 517,000 jobs have been added in the month of January. Who will give the Republican response at the State of the Union address 2023? Republicans have picked Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, who served as White House press secretary under Donald Trump, to deliver their response. That speech is generally delivered shortly after the president. Who is the designated survivor of the State of the Union address 2023? One person who does not attend is a single member of Biden's Cabinet who will be picked as a "designated survivor." That individual will be housed in a secure location and is tasked with taking over the government in case of a catastrophe that impairs the president and his other successors at the Capitol. The designated survivor for this year's speech has not yet been announced.

State of the Union address 2023: Date, time, how to watch live-streaming of Joe Biden's speech; what to expect

Highlights from Trump's reality-TV style State of the Union address

By Scott Lucas

The State of the Union headline was not in Donald Trump’s script, which initially leashed him to a teleprompter before a joint session of Congress on Tuesday night.

The White House had trailed that the speech, given a week late because of the shutdown of the federal government, would emphasise a bipartisan approach to politics. So Trump – more like a newcomer carefully reading through an audition than the flamboyant actor at his rallies and impromptu press conferences – ticked off lines that could have been given by any of his predecessors.

“Millions of our fellow citizens are watching us, gathered in this great chamber, hoping we will govern not as two parties, but as one nation,” he opened. “Victory is winning for our country,” followed. And “Make America Great Again” was reworked as “Tonight I ask you to choose greatness”.

Trump sheltered in the safety of introducing various invited guests, from World War II veterans to Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin. He warmed up and loosened up a bit as he claimed credit for everything from the American economy to the release of former inmates Alice Johnson and Matthew Charles through clemency, who were also in the audience.

The woman behind

The story of the day had been off-script Trump. Before feigning the bipartisan in his speech, Trump spent a lunch with reporters assailing Democrats. There, he apparently dismissed former vice-president and possible presidential candidate Joe Biden as “dumb”, while Senate minority leader, Chuck Schumer, was a “son of a b****”.

But the story of the night was the woman behind Trump on the podium. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the legislator who uninvited and re-invited Trump to give the State of the Union address, silently exercised her new authority as leader of the Democrat-controlled chamber.

Pelosi gave courteous applause at points during the performance. But for much of it, she monitored Trump like an instructor watching a borderline student. She quietly marked Trump’s 15-minute peroration on immigration, filled with his boilerplate distortions about the “tremendous onslaught” of “large, organised caravans” arriving at the US border.&nbsp;

She gave a small shake of the head as he recited hyperbole about his immigrant straw man, “the savage gang MS-13”. She never broke into a gaze of disbelief as the claims got bigger and wilder, as he introduced three women whose relative was killed by an “illegal alien”. She just continued the silent marking of the man in front of her.

The women in front

The women of Congress were the story in front of Trump, and many of them were taking seats for the first time this January. They came dressed in white in tribute to the women’s suffrage movement.

As he got into his script, with more swagger and jabs in the words, Trump played to the Republicans who rallied to their cues. They backed him in his biggest swing of the night, when he attacked “ridiculous partisan investigations” as disruptive to the “economic miracle” taking place in the nation.

When they offered an impromptu opportunity by chanting “USA, USA”, Trump seized it. “That sounds so good”, he told them. Buoyed, he gave a finger jab at the Democrats as he claimed the achievement of making the US a “net exporter of energy”.

But the cameras were often on the 131 women sworn into the 116th Congress. Like the woman behind Trump, they monitored the chief executive rather than deferred to him. They stood in their own tribute to “greatness” but remained in their seats during Trump’s more frequent invocations of division and confrontation, including over his wall with Mexico.

And then they seized the evening

Trump, with his chequered personal and political record over women, again reached for self-congratulation: “No one has benefited more from our thriving economy than women, who have filled 58 per cent of the new jobs created in the last year.”

The 131 women leapt to their feet. They whooped, danced, and high-fived each other. They celebrated.

Appearing surprised and unsettled, Trump exclaimed: “You were not supposed to do that.” He tried to regain attention to himself: “All Americans can be proud that we have more women in the workforce than ever before.”

The dancing surged. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York gave a hip shake.

Trump tried one more time: “We also have more women serving in Congress than ever before.” Every eye on them rather than the president, the women hugged each other, waved, and danced some more.

Facing the wave, the Republicans pushed it with the chant, “USA, USA, USA”. But rather than giving way, the women took up the chant. Rather than letting the Republicans claim to represent the nation with their mantra, they shouted it, too – they danced to it.

Trump continued through his script. He announced another summit with North Korea’s Kim Jong-un, in Vietnam at the end of this month. He introduced a ten-year-old girl who defeated brain cancer. He spoke about “babies ripped from their mother’s womb, moments from birth”. But his State of the Union was done for the night.

And his rule of the state might be done for good. Behind him was a new political reality: one woman with her own control. In front of him, the many others not just blocking his path – likely to be a troubled one in 2019 – but forging their own.

(Scott Lucas is Professor of International Politics, University of Birmingham)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/state-of-the-union-the-women-in-white-stole-trumps-night-and-will-haunt-him-for-the-rest-of-the-year-111276">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

By Scott Lucas The State of the Union headline was not in Donald Trump’s script, which initially leashed him to a teleprompter before a joint session of Congress on Tuesday night.

By Scott Lucas The State of the Union headline was not in Donald Trump’s script, which initially leashed him to a teleprompter before a joint session of Congress on Tuesday night. The White House had trailed that the speech, given a week late because of the shutdown of the federal government, would emphasise a bipartisan approach to politics. So Trump – more like a newcomer carefully reading through an audition than the flamboyant actor at his rallies and impromptu press conferences – ticked off lines that could have been given by any of his predecessors. “Millions of our fellow citizens are watching us, gathered in this great chamber, hoping we will govern not as two parties, but as one nation,” he opened. “Victory is winning for our country,” followed. And “Make America Great Again” was reworked as “Tonight I ask you to choose greatness”. Trump sheltered in the safety of introducing various invited guests, from World War II veterans to Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin. He warmed up and loosened up a bit as he claimed credit for everything from the American economy to the release of former inmates Alice Johnson and Matthew Charles through clemency, who were also in the audience. The woman behind The story of the day had been off-script Trump. Before feigning the bipartisan in his speech, Trump spent a lunch with reporters assailing Democrats. There, he apparently dismissed former vice-president and possible presidential candidate Joe Biden as “dumb”, while Senate minority leader, Chuck Schumer, was a “son of a b****”. But the story of the night was the woman behind Trump on the podium. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the legislator who uninvited and re-invited Trump to give the State of the Union address, silently exercised her new authority as leader of the Democrat-controlled chamber. Pelosi gave courteous applause at points during the performance. But for much of it, she monitored Trump like an instructor watching a borderline student. She quietly marked Trump’s 15-minute peroration on immigration, filled with his boilerplate distortions about the “tremendous onslaught” of “large, organised caravans” arriving at the US border. She gave a small shake of the head as he recited hyperbole about his immigrant straw man, “the savage gang MS-13”. She never broke into a gaze of disbelief as the claims got bigger and wilder, as he introduced three women whose relative was killed by an “illegal alien”. She just continued the silent marking of the man in front of her. The women in front The women of Congress were the story in front of Trump, and many of them were taking seats for the first time this January. They came dressed in white in tribute to the women’s suffrage movement. As he got into his script, with more swagger and jabs in the words, Trump played to the Republicans who rallied to their cues. They backed him in his biggest swing of the night, when he attacked “ridiculous partisan investigations” as disruptive to the “economic miracle” taking place in the nation. When they offered an impromptu opportunity by chanting “USA, USA”, Trump seized it. “That sounds so good”, he told them. Buoyed, he gave a finger jab at the Democrats as he claimed the achievement of making the US a “net exporter of energy”. But the cameras were often on the 131 women sworn into the 116th Congress. Like the woman behind Trump, they monitored the chief executive rather than deferred to him. They stood in their own tribute to “greatness” but remained in their seats during Trump’s more frequent invocations of division and confrontation, including over his wall with Mexico. And then they seized the evening Trump, with his chequered personal and political record over women, again reached for self-congratulation: “No one has benefited more from our thriving economy than women, who have filled 58 per cent of the new jobs created in the last year.” The 131 women leapt to their feet. They whooped, danced, and high-fived each other. They celebrated. Appearing surprised and unsettled, Trump exclaimed: “You were not supposed to do that.” He tried to regain attention to himself: “All Americans can be proud that we have more women in the workforce than ever before.” The dancing surged. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York gave a hip shake. Trump tried one more time: “We also have more women serving in Congress than ever before.” Every eye on them rather than the president, the women hugged each other, waved, and danced some more. Facing the wave, the Republicans pushed it with the chant, “USA, USA, USA”. But rather than giving way, the women took up the chant. Rather than letting the Republicans claim to represent the nation with their mantra, they shouted it, too – they danced to it. Trump continued through his script. He announced another summit with North Korea’s Kim Jong-un, in Vietnam at the end of this month. He introduced a ten-year-old girl who defeated brain cancer. He spoke about “babies ripped from their mother’s womb, moments from birth”. But his State of the Union was done for the night. And his rule of the state might be done for good. Behind him was a new political reality: one woman with her own control. In front of him, the many others not just blocking his path – likely to be a troubled one in 2019 – but forging their own. (Scott Lucas is Professor of International Politics, University of Birmingham) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

State of the Union: The women in white stole Trump’s night

President Trump on Wednesday vowed to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/theft-of-american-jobs-stealing-our-intellectual-property-will-end-trump-on-trade-deal-with-china-in-state-of-the-union-address-195469">right "calamitous" trade policies</a> and sought to expand his power to impose tariffs which he said would empower him to respond faster during trade wars.

Trump during his annual <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/this-year-us-astronauts-will-go-back-to-space-in-american-rockets-says-trump-in-state-of-the-union-address-195461">State of the Union address</a> told Congress that Washington's aggressive trade negotiations with China would mean an end to its alleged "theft" of US jobs and wealth.

"We are now making it clear to China that after years of targeting our industries, and stealing our intellectual property, the theft of American jobs and wealth has come to an end," Trump said in his address to the joint session of the US Congress.

"Therefore, we recently imposed tariffs on $250 billion of Chinese goods -- and now our treasury is receiving billions of dollars a month from a country that never gave us a dime. But I don't blame China for taking advantage of us, I blame our leaders and representatives for allowing this travesty to happen."

"I am also asking you to pass the United States Reciprocal Trade Act, so that if another country places an unfair tariff on an American product, we can charge them the exact same tariff on the same product that they sell to us," Trump said.

The United States Reciprocal Trade Act, if signed into law, could have consequences on bilateral trade with India.

The proposed legislation would expand the White House's latitude to impose tariffs if other countries' tariffs or non-tariff barrier exceed US ones.

The legislation would require at least some negotiations with the other countries and for the White House to notify Congress, but the tariff wouldn't need lawmaker's approval, according to reports.

The president already has some powers to impose tariffs without congressional approval, primarily by citing national security as a reason. He has used those to impose tariffs on steel and aluminium imports.

The Reciprocal Trade Act is likely to face an uphill fight in Congress, where many lawmakers in both parties have opposed Trump's trade policies.

A bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced legislation to limit Trump's ability to use national security as a rationale for tariffs. The business community is rallying behind the bill.

President Trump on Wednesday vowed to right "calamitous" trade policies and sought to expand his power to impose tariffs which he said would empower him to respond faster during trade wars.

President Trump on Wednesday vowed to right "calamitous" trade policies and sought to expand his power to impose tariffs which he said would empower him to respond faster during trade wars. Trump during his annual State of the Union address told Congress that Washington's aggressive trade negotiations with China would mean an end to its alleged "theft" of US jobs and wealth. "We are now making it clear to China that after years of targeting our industries, and stealing our intellectual property, the theft of American jobs and wealth has come to an end," Trump said in his address to the joint session of the US Congress. "Therefore, we recently imposed tariffs on $250 billion of Chinese goods -- and now our treasury is receiving billions of dollars a month from a country that never gave us a dime. But I don't blame China for taking advantage of us, I blame our leaders and representatives for allowing this travesty to happen." "I am also asking you to pass the United States Reciprocal Trade Act, so that if another country places an unfair tariff on an American product, we can charge them the exact same tariff on the same product that they sell to us," Trump said. The United States Reciprocal Trade Act, if signed into law, could have consequences on bilateral trade with India. The proposed legislation would expand the White House's latitude to impose tariffs if other countries' tariffs or non-tariff barrier exceed US ones. The legislation would require at least some negotiations with the other countries and for the White House to notify Congress, but the tariff wouldn't need lawmaker's approval, according to reports. The president already has some powers to impose tariffs without congressional approval, primarily by citing national security as a reason. He has used those to impose tariffs on steel and aluminium imports. The Reciprocal Trade Act is likely to face an uphill fight in Congress, where many lawmakers in both parties have opposed Trump's trade policies. A bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced legislation to limit Trump's ability to use national security as a rationale for tariffs. The business community is rallying behind the bill.

Pass the United States Reciprocal Trade Act, pleads Trump to lawmakers in State of the Union address

US President Trump during his <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/this-year-us-astronauts-will-go-back-to-space-in-american-rockets-says-trump-in-state-of-the-union-address-195461">State of the Union address</a> said he had called up another 3,750 troops to stop "organised caravans marching towards America".

"I have ordered another 3,750 troops for our southern border because organised caravans are marching towards America."

"I am ready for foreigners to come in largest numbers but they have to come legally," he said while addressing the immigration issue.

"Legal immigrants will enrich the nation."

"Human traffickers take advantage of our open areas, countless Americans are murdered by illegal immigrants."&nbsp;

"Can't let illegal aliens to come into our country," he said while defending his immigration policy.

"The proper wall never got built, I will get it built," he emphasised. "Walls work and walls save lives," he said," so lets compromise and reach a deal to make America safe."

"When walls go up, illegal immigration comes down."&nbsp;"We need a powerful barrier," he told the Congress while pitching for the border wall with Mexico.

"Women have benefitted from economic policies, there are more women in the workforce than ever before." He pointed to women legislators who wore white as a show of solidarity.

The President also explained the tariffs on Chinese goods while saying that he had "great respect" for President Xi. The president said the two sides are now working to put a trade deal together.

"Don't blame China for taking advantage of US," he said. "We respect intellectual property rights," he said which is one of the most contentious issues in the US-China trade war.

"MCA will replace NAFTA, he said. "NAFTA was a trading catastrophe."

"Parties should be able to unite to rebuild America," he pitched to the Congress

"We must create a new standard of living in the 21st century," he said, adding, "the decision is ours to make."

Tonight I ask you to choose greatness, he said as the Congressmen applauded.

"This year Astronauts will go back to space on American rockets, the president said while introducing Buzz Aldrin who walked on the Moon during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969.

"Have confronted problems that have been ignored in decades," the US president said.

"Have created 5.3 billion new jobs," he told the American Congress. "Nearly 5 billion Americans have been taken off food stamps." "Child credit tax has been doubled."

"The US economy is growing twice as fast today," he asserted. "We need unity at home to defeat our enemies," the president said.

"Unemployment reached the lowest rate in half a century," he said. "We are not net exporter of energy."

US President Trump during his State of the Union address said he had called up another 3,750 troops to stop "organised caravans marching towards America". "I have ordered another 3,750 troops for our southern border because organised caravans are marching towards America.

US President Trump during his State of the Union address said he had called up another 3,750 troops to stop "organised caravans marching towards America". "I have ordered another 3,750 troops for our southern border because organised caravans are marching towards America." "I am ready for foreigners to come in largest numbers but they have to come legally," he said while addressing the immigration issue. "Legal immigrants will enrich the nation." "Human traffickers take advantage of our open areas, countless Americans are murdered by illegal immigrants." "Can't let illegal aliens to come into our country," he said while defending his immigration policy. "The proper wall never got built, I will get it built," he emphasised. "Walls work and walls save lives," he said," so lets compromise and reach a deal to make America safe." "When walls go up, illegal immigration comes down." "We need a powerful barrier," he told the Congress while pitching for the border wall with Mexico. "Women have benefitted from economic policies, there are more women in the workforce than ever before." He pointed to women legislators who wore white as a show of solidarity. The President also explained the tariffs on Chinese goods while saying that he had "great respect" for President Xi. The president said the two sides are now working to put a trade deal together. "Don't blame China for taking advantage of US," he said. "We respect intellectual property rights," he said which is one of the most contentious issues in the US-China trade war. "MCA will replace NAFTA, he said. "NAFTA was a trading catastrophe." "Parties should be able to unite to rebuild America," he pitched to the Congress "We must create a new standard of living in the 21st century," he said, adding, "the decision is ours to make." Tonight I ask you to choose greatness, he said as the Congressmen applauded. "This year Astronauts will go back to space on American rockets, the president said while introducing Buzz Aldrin who walked on the Moon during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969. "Have confronted problems that have been ignored in decades," the US president said. "Have created 5.3 billion new jobs," he told the American Congress. "Nearly 5 billion Americans have been taken off food stamps." "Child credit tax has been doubled." "The US economy is growing twice as fast today," he asserted. "We need unity at home to defeat our enemies," the president said. "Unemployment reached the lowest rate in half a century," he said. "We are not net exporter of energy."

The proper wall never got built, I will get it built, says Trump during State of the Union address

The United States President <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-promises-sunny-state-of-union-speech-but-clouds-thicken-195206">Donald Trump</a> will give his annual <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-state-of-the-union-address-31215">State of the Union speech</a> on Tuesday as he will begin the second half of his presidency.

According to the excerpt released by White House, Trump's speech will cover various topics including immigration, national security, and trade and call for unity in a divided Congress.

In the address,&nbsp;Trump will also call on&nbsp;Congress to pass the United States Reciprocal Trade Act, which if signed into law could have consequences on bilateral trade with India.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/state-of-the-union-address-barack-obama-versus-donald-trump-31291">State of the Union address, Barack Obama versus Donald Trump</a>

The Reciprocal Trade Act would give Trump an authority to levy tariffs equal to those of a foreign country on a particular product if that country's tariffs are determined to be significantly lower than those charged by the United States.

It would also allow him to take into account non-tariff barriers when determining such tariffs.&nbsp;

The State of the Union Address is an annual message presented by President of United States to a joint session of the United States Congress which starts after the president completes one year of his term and as it is broadcast live across the country, it is a platform for President to directly communicate to the people of America.

The president address held in the house of representative before a joint session of the United States Congress. Today the address will take place at 7:30 am&nbsp;(GMT-5).

In January, Trump in interaction with lawmakers at the White House had said the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cut-on-motorcycle-tariffs-by-india-fair-deal-trump-192625">Reciprocal Trade Act</a> would give the US workers a fair and level playing field against other countries.

He has also alleged that the US had been taken advantage of by many countries all over the world.

"They charge us tariffs and taxes, the likes of which nobody has any understanding. They're so high and so unfair! They also have barriers where we can't go in. They have trade barriers that make it impossible for us to sell our farm products and our other products.

&nbsp;

The United States President Donald Trump will give his annual State of the Union speech on Tuesday as he will begin the second half of his presidency. According to the excerpt released by White House, Trump's speech will cover various topics including immigration, national security, and trade and call for unity in a divided Congress.

The United States President Donald Trump will give his annual State of the Union speech on Tuesday as he will begin the second half of his presidency. According to the excerpt released by White House, Trump's speech will cover various topics including immigration, national security, and trade and call for unity in a divided Congress. In the address, Trump will also call on Congress to pass the United States Reciprocal Trade Act, which if signed into law could have consequences on bilateral trade with India. Also read: State of the Union address, Barack Obama versus Donald Trump The Reciprocal Trade Act would give Trump an authority to levy tariffs equal to those of a foreign country on a particular product if that country's tariffs are determined to be significantly lower than those charged by the United States. It would also allow him to take into account non-tariff barriers when determining such tariffs. The State of the Union Address is an annual message presented by President of United States to a joint session of the United States Congress which starts after the president completes one year of his term and as it is broadcast live across the country, it is a platform for President to directly communicate to the people of America. The president address held in the house of representative before a joint session of the United States Congress. Today the address will take place at 7:30 am (GMT-5). In January, Trump in interaction with lawmakers at the White House had said the Reciprocal Trade Act would give the US workers a fair and level playing field against other countries. He has also alleged that the US had been taken advantage of by many countries all over the world. "They charge us tariffs and taxes, the likes of which nobody has any understanding. They're so high and so unfair! They also have barriers where we can't go in. They have trade barriers that make it impossible for us to sell our farm products and our other products.

Eye on India: In State of the Union address, Trump to speak on Reciprocal Trade Act

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/bona-fide-leader-of-democrats-stacey-abrams-to-counter-trump-speech-195377">President Donald Trump</a> on Tuesday was set to deliver a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/eye-on-india-in-state-of-the-union-address-trump-to-speak-on-reciprocal-trade-act-195242">State of the Union speech</a> challenging Democrats to approve funding for his long-sought border wall, but stopping short of declaring a national emergency over it, at least for now.

At 9 pm EST before a joint session of Congress, Trump will likely stir contention with remarks on immigration policy, after his demand for $5.7 billion in wall funds triggered a historic 35-day partial government shutdown that more than half of Americans blamed him for, according to Reuters/Ipsos polling.

Millions of Americans were expected to be watching the address on television, giving Trump his biggest opportunity to date to explain why he believes a barrier is needed on the US southern border with Mexico. The speech was delayed for a week because of the shutdown that ended on January 25.

When he takes centre stage in the chamber of the House of Representatives for the big speech, sitting behind him over his shoulder will be his main congressional adversary, Democrat Nancy Pelosi, who became House speaker after her party won control of the chamber in November's elections.

She has shown no sign of budging from her opposition to Trump's wall-funding demand. That has led Trump to contemplate declaring a national emergency, which he says would let him reallocate funding from elsewhere without congressional action.

But a source close to Trump said the president was not expected to take that step, which would likely draw a swift court challenge from Democrats. Instead, he will urge a congressional committee to do a border security deal by February 15.

"He's going to set the stage," the source said. "He'll tell people: 'Here's why I should,' but say: 'I'm giving Congress another chance to act.'"

Trump's speech will also offer an olive branch to opponents as he looks toward the 2020 election, targeting areas he sees for potential bipartisan agreement, such as infrastructure improvements, lowering prescription drug costs and healthcare.

A senior administration official said Trump would "encourage Congress to reject the politics of resistance and retribution, and instead adopt a spirit of cooperation and compromise so we can achieve it."

But that message could be undermined with Trump threatening to go his own way on the wall if he cannot get Congress to approve the funding he wants. On Sunday, Trump tweeted: "If there is no Wall, there is no Security." He has said the wall, which he promised in his 2016 campaign, is needed to deter illegal immigration and drugs.

Some Republicans are urging Trump not to declare an emergency. "I'm for whatever works that prevents the level of dysfunction we've seen on full display here the last month, and also doesn't bring about a view on the president's part that he needs to declare a national emergency," Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell told reporters last week.

FOREIGN POLICY

Trump will also address foreign policy, including support for an effort to coax Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro into leaving power, declaring the Islamic State militant group all but defeated, and perhaps announcing where he will next meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. He will also give an update on trade talks with the Chinese.

Trump, Vice President Mike Pence and White House acting Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney went over the speech on Monday night with about a dozen supporters including former campaign aides Corey Lewandowski and David Bossie, as well as Matt Schlapp, chairman of the American Conservative Union, a source familiar with the meeting said.

The source said Trump would discuss troop drawdowns in Syria and Afghanistan, and that about half the speech would be devoted to foreign policy.

Trump will also claim success on economic policy, including cutting federal regulations, the source said.

Some Democrats have invited guests to the speech to highlight various causes, some at odds with Trump’s policies, making a raucous atmosphere possible inside the House chamber.

Representative Pramila Jayapal said on Monday she would invite climate scientist Lisa Graumlich, dean of the College of the Environment at the University of Washington, as her guest, to underscore the climate change issue.

"One thing you will see is that the chamber is full and the president is surrounded by women, by people of colour, by individuals who have really been hurt by this president and many of the actions that he has taken,” Jayapal said.

Republican strategist and former White House official Raj Shah said the speech offered Trump a chance to turn the page.

"Washington right now looks a little bit petty and a little bit small and the State of the Union is an opportunity to go big and talk in broad themes about what’s good about America and look beyond some of the issues of the last few weeks," he said.

President Donald Trump on Tuesday was set to deliver a State of the Union speech challenging Democrats to approve funding for his long-sought border wall, but stopping short of declaring a national emergency over it, at least for now.

President Donald Trump on Tuesday was set to deliver a State of the Union speech challenging Democrats to approve funding for his long-sought border wall, but stopping short of declaring a national emergency over it, at least for now. At 9 pm EST before a joint session of Congress, Trump will likely stir contention with remarks on immigration policy, after his demand for $5.7 billion in wall funds triggered a historic 35-day partial government shutdown that more than half of Americans blamed him for, according to Reuters/Ipsos polling. Millions of Americans were expected to be watching the address on television, giving Trump his biggest opportunity to date to explain why he believes a barrier is needed on the US southern border with Mexico. The speech was delayed for a week because of the shutdown that ended on January 25. When he takes centre stage in the chamber of the House of Representatives for the big speech, sitting behind him over his shoulder will be his main congressional adversary, Democrat Nancy Pelosi, who became House speaker after her party won control of the chamber in November's elections. She has shown no sign of budging from her opposition to Trump's wall-funding demand. That has led Trump to contemplate declaring a national emergency, which he says would let him reallocate funding from elsewhere without congressional action. But a source close to Trump said the president was not expected to take that step, which would likely draw a swift court challenge from Democrats. Instead, he will urge a congressional committee to do a border security deal by February 15. "He's going to set the stage," the source said. "He'll tell people: 'Here's why I should,' but say: 'I'm giving Congress another chance to act.'" Trump's speech will also offer an olive branch to opponents as he looks toward the 2020 election, targeting areas he sees for potential bipartisan agreement, such as infrastructure improvements, lowering prescription drug costs and healthcare. A senior administration official said Trump would "encourage Congress to reject the politics of resistance and retribution, and instead adopt a spirit of cooperation and compromise so we can achieve it." But that message could be undermined with Trump threatening to go his own way on the wall if he cannot get Congress to approve the funding he wants. On Sunday, Trump tweeted: "If there is no Wall, there is no Security." He has said the wall, which he promised in his 2016 campaign, is needed to deter illegal immigration and drugs. Some Republicans are urging Trump not to declare an emergency. "I'm for whatever works that prevents the level of dysfunction we've seen on full display here the last month, and also doesn't bring about a view on the president's part that he needs to declare a national emergency," Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell told reporters last week. FOREIGN POLICY Trump will also address foreign policy, including support for an effort to coax Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro into leaving power, declaring the Islamic State militant group all but defeated, and perhaps announcing where he will next meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. He will also give an update on trade talks with the Chinese. Trump, Vice President Mike Pence and White House acting Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney went over the speech on Monday night with about a dozen supporters including former campaign aides Corey Lewandowski and David Bossie, as well as Matt Schlapp, chairman of the American Conservative Union, a source familiar with the meeting said. The source said Trump would discuss troop drawdowns in Syria and Afghanistan, and that about half the speech would be devoted to foreign policy. Trump will also claim success on economic policy, including cutting federal regulations, the source said. Some Democrats have invited guests to the speech to highlight various causes, some at odds with Trump’s policies, making a raucous atmosphere possible inside the House chamber. Representative Pramila Jayapal said on Monday she would invite climate scientist Lisa Graumlich, dean of the College of the Environment at the University of Washington, as her guest, to underscore the climate change issue. "One thing you will see is that the chamber is full and the president is surrounded by women, by people of colour, by individuals who have really been hurt by this president and many of the actions that he has taken,” Jayapal said. Republican strategist and former White House official Raj Shah said the speech offered Trump a chance to turn the page. "Washington right now looks a little bit petty and a little bit small and the State of the Union is an opportunity to go big and talk in broad themes about what’s good about America and look beyond some of the issues of the last few weeks," he said.

In State of Union speech Wednesday, Trump again expected to make case for his border wall

US President Donald Trump's State of the Union speech will urge optimism, pulling back from Washington's current climate of strife, a top official insisted Friday.

Previewing next Tuesday's speech before Congress, a senior administration official said Trump will "cast an inspiring vision of American greatness."

The president -- in open warfare with opposition Democrats, as well as railing almost daily against prosecutors looking at allegations that he colluded with Russia in his 2016 election -- will take the high ground, the official said.

"Optimistic and unifying, but I think it can also be considered visionary," the official said of the speech.

However, the speech is bound to be one of the most politically fraught in years, coming against the backdrop of a bitter row with opposition Democrats who refuse to fund Trump's plan for more walling along the US-Mexican border.

The dispute even led to Congress delaying the date of the speech.

And Trump himself hinted Friday that he will use the delayed event to declare a national emergency, allowing himself to unilaterally appropriate wall building funds, bypassing Congress altogether.

The senior administration official refused to confirm any specific details of the speech and emphasized that the president's main goal was to present a more healing tone.

According to an excerpt given to journalists, Trump will say: "Together, we can break decades of political stalemate, we can bridge old divisions, heal old wounds, build new coalitions, forge new solutions and unlock the extraordinary promise of America's future."

The administration official, who spoke on condition of not being identified, said that Trump would focus on five areas:

- The contentious debate on illegal immigration over the Mexican border.

- An "update" on trade negotiations with China and other countries where Trump says he is strengthening markets for US workers.

- Asking Congress to approve "substantial investments" on US infrastructure projects.

- Lowering sky-high prescription medicine costs.

- Foreign policy and efforts in countries like Syria and Afghanistan to "bring an end to our endless foreign wars."

The official refused to give concrete details of policy announcements. However, he did say that Venezuela, where Washington is supporting the opposition's bid to push out leftist President Nicolas Maduro, would feature.

Speaking at the White House, Trump gave his strongest indication yet that he is readying to declare a state of emergency on the border, something that would undoubtedly deepen partisan bickering in Washington.

"Listen closely to the State of the Union, I think you’ll find it very exciting," Trump said.

Trump's threat comes well before the expiration of a February 15 deadline that he set for Congress to agree on funding for wall construction. But on Thursday he described negotiations with opposition Democrats "a waste of time."

US President Donald Trump's State of the Union speech will urge optimism, pulling back from Washington's current climate of strife, a top official insisted Friday.

US President Donald Trump's State of the Union speech will urge optimism, pulling back from Washington's current climate of strife, a top official insisted Friday. Previewing next Tuesday's speech before Congress, a senior administration official said Trump will "cast an inspiring vision of American greatness." The president -- in open warfare with opposition Democrats, as well as railing almost daily against prosecutors looking at allegations that he colluded with Russia in his 2016 election -- will take the high ground, the official said. "Optimistic and unifying, but I think it can also be considered visionary," the official said of the speech. However, the speech is bound to be one of the most politically fraught in years, coming against the backdrop of a bitter row with opposition Democrats who refuse to fund Trump's plan for more walling along the US-Mexican border. The dispute even led to Congress delaying the date of the speech. And Trump himself hinted Friday that he will use the delayed event to declare a national emergency, allowing himself to unilaterally appropriate wall building funds, bypassing Congress altogether. The senior administration official refused to confirm any specific details of the speech and emphasized that the president's main goal was to present a more healing tone. According to an excerpt given to journalists, Trump will say: "Together, we can break decades of political stalemate, we can bridge old divisions, heal old wounds, build new coalitions, forge new solutions and unlock the extraordinary promise of America's future." The administration official, who spoke on condition of not being identified, said that Trump would focus on five areas: - The contentious debate on illegal immigration over the Mexican border. - An "update" on trade negotiations with China and other countries where Trump says he is strengthening markets for US workers. - Asking Congress to approve "substantial investments" on US infrastructure projects. - Lowering sky-high prescription medicine costs. - Foreign policy and efforts in countries like Syria and Afghanistan to "bring an end to our endless foreign wars." The official refused to give concrete details of policy announcements. However, he did say that Venezuela, where Washington is supporting the opposition's bid to push out leftist President Nicolas Maduro, would feature. Speaking at the White House, Trump gave his strongest indication yet that he is readying to declare a state of emergency on the border, something that would undoubtedly deepen partisan bickering in Washington. "Listen closely to the State of the Union, I think you’ll find it very exciting," Trump said. Trump's threat comes well before the expiration of a February 15 deadline that he set for Congress to agree on funding for wall construction. But on Thursday he described negotiations with opposition Democrats "a waste of time."

Trump to pitch optimism, 'greatness' in State of Union: White House

The US president Donald Trump will be delivering his State of the Union (SOTU) speech on Jan 30, 2018. Given the promises made during Trump&rsquo;s campaign and the trajectory of the events since he took office, the White House has been gearing up to prepare for a trade crackdown on China. During his Asia Trip, Trump addressed the problems the US is suffering due to unfair and unfavorable trade practices by the other countries. In his &lsquo;America First&rsquo; policy, Trump vowed to only engage in fair and reciprocal trade, revisiting several trade pacts made under previous administrations.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The National Security Strategy (NSS), released in December 2017, unabashedly saw the global trade practices as unfit for the US objectives of making &lsquo;America great again&rsquo;. The NSS categorised China as a strategic and economic competitor, which took advantage of the US-led globalisation initiative.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The US and China have continued to express displeasure at each other&rsquo;s trade practices. In the last World Economic Forum, 2017, the keynote speech delivered by Xi Jinping expressed a different side of Chinese thinking where Xi prompted liberal and free trade for a globalised world while accusing the US of protectionism. The speech came after Trump Administration took over from Obama administration.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

In the period of Trump&rsquo;s campaign, several allegations were made against China&rsquo;s unfair, regressive and harmful trade practices, currency manipulation, and imbalance of trade, against which a vision of &lsquo;America First&rsquo; policy was promoted. Trump promised to &lsquo;fix&rsquo; the trade deficit, engage only in reciprocal and far trade instead of free trade.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

As politico published&mdash;according to the three administration officials&mdash;the crackdown is likely to include new tariffs directed at China. The tariffs are to involve everything from imports of steel and solar panels to intellectual property theft.

&nbsp;

The White House was seen keen on addressing the trade issue with China since Trump&rsquo;s Asia Trips. The events that followed, suggest that Trump administration is past the question of &lsquo;should&rsquo; and reached precise measures on &lsquo;how&rsquo; to rectify trade imbalance with China. Moreover, trade is one of the policy areas where the President can act without reliance on the Congress.

&nbsp;

Underlining the development, there have been serious debates between the Trump senior advisors on the course of trade policy against China as the consequences may be severe. The officials said that even though Trump is undecided on specific policies, there are chances that these tariffs will be sanctioned, attracting severe retaliation from the targeted countries.

&nbsp;

Trump&rsquo;s meeting with Republican Congressional Leaders, at Camp David on 6th Jan 2018, drew caution from going too far on a trade war. The meetings included key Cabinet Secretaries and senior administration officials, including Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, trade advisor Peter Navarro, Council Economic Advisers chairman Kevin Hassett and National Economic Council director Gary Cohn. The Politico reported, a clear divide between the senior members, Cohn and group, calling for more moderate, targeted approach and Navarro, advocating harsh and sweeping actions.

&nbsp;

The current administration is known for reversing the actions taken during Obama administration. Trump pulled out from Trans-Pacific Partnership, Paris Agreement on Climate Change, demanded allies to pay their share for security provided under the US and announced renegotiation of two major trade agreements&mdash;North Atlantic Free Trade Association (NAFTA) and Free Trade Agreement with South Korea. Not to forget the upcoming World Economic Forum, from 23-26 Jan 2018, will also condense US policy on trade (with China) and face real-time response from the attending nations.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

China has already received certain blows on trade, complicating an overwrought relationship. The Congressional Committee on Foreign Investment in the US (CFIUS) blocked Ant Financial, Jack Ma&rsquo;s company, from acquiring MoneyGram due to concerns for national security. In the cases of import of solar power and washing machines, the US Trade Commission concluded that increased imports are a &ldquo;substantial cause of serious injury to the domestic industry&rdquo;.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

On 22 Jan 2018, White House decided to enforce tariffs on solar panels and washing machines. Chinese Commerce Ministry criticised the move saying, &ldquo;the US side once again has abused its trade remedy measures&hellip;will resolutely defend its [China&rsquo;s] legitimate interests&rdquo;.

&nbsp;

Trump has a wide berth for maneuvers in deciding tariffs and import quotas. It can be speculated that he may only choose to target China to signify the US attempt and resolve at punishing China for trade malpractice. It&rsquo;s likely that his attempts may face challenges at the World Trade Organization (WTO) and may also trigger mirrored actions by countries, barring the US products in their respective markets. The prospects of such tariffs are likely to result in loss of tens of thousands of jobs, alarming the booming solar energy sector in the US, created under the Obama administration. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

The reason given behind these tariffs, is to provide much required impetus to the indigenous solar manufacturing, significant for national security and economy.

&nbsp;

The attack on solar power has also lead to a debate questioning the intentions behind tariffs against a green, renewable alternative to fossil fuels. The Trump administration increased efforts to repeal Obama administration&rsquo;s climate rules on the power industry, it proposed measures to give financial support to coal-fired power plants. The administration has also pushed to increase US exports of liquefied natural gas.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

In the Obama Administration, the solar power sector enjoyed its boom years resulting in cost competitiveness with natural gas and coal-based power plants. The cost declination in prices of solar panels will be reversed with the execution of the tariffs. Chinese companies hold about 80 percent of the solar manufacturing capacity, the US being the second largest.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The US congressional policies have already reduced Chinese investments from about US$ 50 Billion in 2016 to less than half in 2017. The US&rsquo;s barring of Chinese investment in US high-tech sector has, ironically, accelerated the pace of tech innovation in China, increasing expenditure on R&amp;D from 1% in 2000 to 2% in 2017.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

On Jan 22nd 2018, Pentagon released its National Defense Strategy (NDS), calling for aggressive steps towards the strategic competitors&mdash;China and Russia. Previously, the NSS 2017, had already categorised the two nations as a danger to the US national security and international order.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Post the release of NDS, Jim Mattis Secretary of Defense said, &quot;this required some tough choices ... and we made them&hellip;based upon a fundamental precept: namely, that America can afford survival.&rdquo; The paper called China and Russia &lsquo;principal priorities&rsquo;. China reprimanded the document, calling it &lsquo;a cold war mentality&rsquo; and &lsquo;full of unreal assertions of zero-sum games and confrontations.&rsquo;

&nbsp;

On the eve of the release, USS Hopper sailed within 12 nautical miles of Scarborough Shoal, occupied by China from Philippines in 2012, reviving the Freedom of Navigation Operations (FONOP) after months.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

On reports of continued militarisation in the South China Sea, Brian Hook, US State Department, vowed to resume FNOPs. The revival of Quad and the new term &lsquo;Indo-Pacific&rsquo; and its amplified use by the US and allies have alarmed China into increasing its military presence on the artificial islands.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Moreover, from Trump&rsquo;s Asia visit, increasing US arms sale have also fueled speculations enticing conflict between China and the neighbors. The US is deploying more military assets in the region, blaming North Korea, but China remains unsure of the US intentions. Seeking closer ties with the Southeast Asian nations against China&rsquo;s growing militarisation on the South China Sea, Jim Mattis is on his Southeast Asia visit from 22-26 Jan 2018. He visited Indonesia and vowed continued efforts to expand maritime cooperation and make Indonesia as &lsquo;a sort of fulcrum between Indian and Pacific Ocean&rsquo;.

&nbsp;

While aggressive military and diplomatic actions by China has provided legitimacy to the US presence in East Asia, the US naval exercises in South China has also had a reverse effect. China never stopped militarising in the South China Sea, in fact, it increased the deployment of military assets, encouraging tension and disputes.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Tensions in US-China relations have global consequences and Trump&rsquo;s response to China in both defense and trade will also have inevitable underpinnings for the rest of the world. Under his administration, the US has acknowledged revival of the great power competition and its reduced leverage on land, in the air, and space and nuclear.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Even though Trump may levy strict tariffs on imports from China, will it improve the US standing in the globalized world? Trump&rsquo;s insistence on &lsquo;America First&rsquo; takes away the US credits as the leader of the globalised world. Moving away from multilateral forums, when it is perhaps required most, the US may isolate itself but at the cost of its supremacy.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tensions in US-China relations have global consequences and Trump’s response to China in both defense and trade will also have inevitable underpinnings for the rest of the world.

The US president Donald Trump will be delivering his State of the Union (SOTU) speech on Jan 30, 2018. Given the promises made during Trump’s campaign and the trajectory of the events since he took office, the White House has been gearing up to prepare for a trade crackdown on China. During his Asia Trip, Trump addressed the problems the US is suffering due to unfair and unfavorable trade practices by the other countries. In his ‘America First’ policy, Trump vowed to only engage in fair and reciprocal trade, revisiting several trade pacts made under previous administrations. The National Security Strategy (NSS), released in December 2017, unabashedly saw the global trade practices as unfit for the US objectives of making ‘America great again’. The NSS categorised China as a strategic and economic competitor, which took advantage of the US-led globalisation initiative. The US and China have continued to express displeasure at each other’s trade practices. In the last World Economic Forum, 2017, the keynote speech delivered by Xi Jinping expressed a different side of Chinese thinking where Xi prompted liberal and free trade for a globalised world while accusing the US of protectionism. The speech came after Trump Administration took over from Obama administration. In the period of Trump’s campaign, several allegations were made against China’s unfair, regressive and harmful trade practices, currency manipulation, and imbalance of trade, against which a vision of ‘America First’ policy was promoted. Trump promised to ‘fix’ the trade deficit, engage only in reciprocal and far trade instead of free trade. As politico published—according to the three administration officials—the crackdown is likely to include new tariffs directed at China. The tariffs are to involve everything from imports of steel and solar panels to intellectual property theft. The White House was seen keen on addressing the trade issue with China since Trump’s Asia Trips. The events that followed, suggest that Trump administration is past the question of ‘should’ and reached precise measures on ‘how’ to rectify trade imbalance with China. Moreover, trade is one of the policy areas where the President can act without reliance on the Congress. Underlining the development, there have been serious debates between the Trump senior advisors on the course of trade policy against China as the consequences may be severe. The officials said that even though Trump is undecided on specific policies, there are chances that these tariffs will be sanctioned, attracting severe retaliation from the targeted countries. Trump’s meeting with Republican Congressional Leaders, at Camp David on 6th Jan 2018, drew caution from going too far on a trade war. The meetings included key Cabinet Secretaries and senior administration officials, including Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, trade advisor Peter Navarro, Council Economic Advisers chairman Kevin Hassett and National Economic Council director Gary Cohn. The Politico reported, a clear divide between the senior members, Cohn and group, calling for more moderate, targeted approach and Navarro, advocating harsh and sweeping actions. The current administration is known for reversing the actions taken during Obama administration. Trump pulled out from Trans-Pacific Partnership, Paris Agreement on Climate Change, demanded allies to pay their share for security provided under the US and announced renegotiation of two major trade agreements—North Atlantic Free Trade Association (NAFTA) and Free Trade Agreement with South Korea. Not to forget the upcoming World Economic Forum, from 23-26 Jan 2018, will also condense US policy on trade (with China) and face real-time response from the attending nations. China has already received certain blows on trade, complicating an overwrought relationship. The Congressional Committee on Foreign Investment in the US (CFIUS) blocked Ant Financial, Jack Ma’s company, from acquiring MoneyGram due to concerns for national security. In the cases of import of solar power and washing machines, the US Trade Commission concluded that increased imports are a “substantial cause of serious injury to the domestic industry”. On 22 Jan 2018, White House decided to enforce tariffs on solar panels and washing machines. Chinese Commerce Ministry criticised the move saying, “the US side once again has abused its trade remedy measures…will resolutely defend its [China’s] legitimate interests”. Trump has a wide berth for maneuvers in deciding tariffs and import quotas. It can be speculated that he may only choose to target China to signify the US attempt and resolve at punishing China for trade malpractice. It’s likely that his attempts may face challenges at the World Trade Organization (WTO) and may also trigger mirrored actions by countries, barring the US products in their respective markets. The prospects of such tariffs are likely to result in loss of tens of thousands of jobs, alarming the booming solar energy sector in the US, created under the Obama administration. The reason given behind these tariffs, is to provide much required impetus to the indigenous solar manufacturing, significant for national security and economy. The attack on solar power has also lead to a debate questioning the intentions behind tariffs against a green, renewable alternative to fossil fuels. The Trump administration increased efforts to repeal Obama administration’s climate rules on the power industry, it proposed measures to give financial support to coal-fired power plants. The administration has also pushed to increase US exports of liquefied natural gas. In the Obama Administration, the solar power sector enjoyed its boom years resulting in cost competitiveness with natural gas and coal-based power plants. The cost declination in prices of solar panels will be reversed with the execution of the tariffs. Chinese companies hold about 80 percent of the solar manufacturing capacity, the US being the second largest. The US congressional policies have already reduced Chinese investments from about US$ 50 Billion in 2016 to less than half in 2017. The US’s barring of Chinese investment in US high-tech sector has, ironically, accelerated the pace of tech innovation in China, increasing expenditure on R&D from 1% in 2000 to 2% in 2017. On Jan 22nd 2018, Pentagon released its National Defense Strategy (NDS), calling for aggressive steps towards the strategic competitors—China and Russia. Previously, the NSS 2017, had already categorised the two nations as a danger to the US national security and international order. Post the release of NDS, Jim Mattis Secretary of Defense said, "this required some tough choices ... and we made them…based upon a fundamental precept: namely, that America can afford survival.” The paper called China and Russia ‘principal priorities’. China reprimanded the document, calling it ‘a cold war mentality’ and ‘full of unreal assertions of zero-sum games and confrontations.’ On the eve of the release, USS Hopper sailed within 12 nautical miles of Scarborough Shoal, occupied by China from Philippines in 2012, reviving the Freedom of Navigation Operations (FONOP) after months. On reports of continued militarisation in the South China Sea, Brian Hook, US State Department, vowed to resume FNOPs. The revival of Quad and the new term ‘Indo-Pacific’ and its amplified use by the US and allies have alarmed China into increasing its military presence on the artificial islands. Moreover, from Trump’s Asia visit, increasing US arms sale have also fueled speculations enticing conflict between China and the neighbors. The US is deploying more military assets in the region, blaming North Korea, but China remains unsure of the US intentions. Seeking closer ties with the Southeast Asian nations against China’s growing militarisation on the South China Sea, Jim Mattis is on his Southeast Asia visit from 22-26 Jan 2018. He visited Indonesia and vowed continued efforts to expand maritime cooperation and make Indonesia as ‘a sort of fulcrum between Indian and Pacific Ocean’. While aggressive military and diplomatic actions by China has provided legitimacy to the US presence in East Asia, the US naval exercises in South China has also had a reverse effect. China never stopped militarising in the South China Sea, in fact, it increased the deployment of military assets, encouraging tension and disputes. Tensions in US-China relations have global consequences and Trump’s response to China in both defense and trade will also have inevitable underpinnings for the rest of the world. Under his administration, the US has acknowledged revival of the great power competition and its reduced leverage on land, in the air, and space and nuclear. Even though Trump may levy strict tariffs on imports from China, will it improve the US standing in the globalized world? Trump’s insistence on ‘America First’ takes away the US credits as the leader of the globalised world. Moving away from multilateral forums, when it is perhaps required most, the US may isolate itself but at the cost of its supremacy. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion:  Will US see Trade War with China? Trump's State of the Union Speech will have the answer