Donald Trump’s Speech to Congress: Fact-Checking 8 Bold Claims, from Washington to Mars
On March 4, President Donald Trump addressed Congress, delivering a speech filled with ambitious claims about his administration’s early accomplishments. Highlighting his first 43 days in office, Trump portrayed his presidency as the most successful in American history. Below are eight key claims from his speech, analyzed for context and accuracy.
1. Trump Claims His Presidency Had the Best Start in History
Early in his speech, Trump compared his administration’s early days to those of George Washington.
“Many have stated that our first month is the most successful in history. And do you know who is number two? George Washington! I don’t know about that list, but we’ll take it.”
Trump did not provide a source for this claim, and while every administration sets its own tone early on, historians generally measure success over longer periods.
2. Trump Says Democrats Won’t Applaud, No Matter What
Trump took aim at Democrats in the chamber, criticizing their lack of enthusiasm for his policies.
“I could find a cure for the most devastating disease, announce the greatest economic recovery, or bring crime to record lows, and these people would not stand, clap, or cheer.”
The opposition party often refrains from applauding policies they disagree with, a common occurrence in political speeches.
3. Trump Blames Biden for High Egg Prices
Addressing inflation, Trump pointed to rising egg prices.
“The egg prices are out of control, and we’re working hard to bring them down. The previous administration left a total mess.”
While inflation has affected food prices, the bird flu had a significant impact on egg costs—a factor beyond direct government control.
4. Trump Criticizes ‘Wasteful Spending,’ Including Research on Transgender Mice
Listing examples of what he called “government waste,” Trump claimed:
“We spent $8 million making mice transgender.”
This statement refers to a research grant examining hormonal effects on mice. The study aimed to understand human health conditions, but its funding sparked controversy.
5. Trump Delays Tariffs for Superstitious Reasons
Trump announced new reciprocal tariffs but said they would take effect on April 2 instead of April 1.
“Because I’m very superstitious, I won’t do it on April Fool’s Day.”
His economic strategy revolves around increasing tariffs on foreign goods to boost domestic industry competitiveness.
6. Trump Calls for Ending the War Between Ukraine and Russia
After meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Trump claimed both Ukraine and Russia were ready for negotiations.
“It’s time to stop this madness. We have received strong signals that Russia wants peace, and Ukraine is ready to negotiate.”
While diplomatic efforts continue, no formal agreement has been reached, and both sides have made conflicting statements regarding peace talks.
7. Trump Says the U.S. Will Acquire Greenland ‘One Way or Another’
Trump revisited his interest in Greenland, citing its strategic military importance.
“We support your right to determine your future, but if you choose, we welcome you into the United States.”
Denmark, which governs Greenland, has repeatedly rejected the idea of selling the territory.
8. Trump Wants to Send Americans to Mars
Toward the end of his speech, Trump expressed ambitious plans for space exploration.
“We’re going to lead humanity into space and plant the American flag on Mars and beyond.”
While Trump has voiced support for space exploration, NASA’s funding and specific plans remain uncertain.
Final Thoughts
Trump’s speech was filled with bold claims, reflecting his administration’s vision for America. While some statements were exaggerated or lacked context, they reinforced his political messaging. As his presidency unfolds, the accuracy of these claims will be tested by reality.