Donald Trump Pledges Economic Revival, Criticizes Biden in National Address

Trump pledges economic surge, blames Biden for high prices in national address

President Donald Trump vowed an economic boom for the United States in a national address on Wednesday, while attributing rising prices to the policies of his Democratic predecessor, Joe Biden.

“Good evening, America. Eleven months ago I inherited a mess, and I’m fixing it,” the 79-year-old said during a live White House broadcast marking the end of his first year back in office. Despite his reassurances, many Americans remain concerned about the cost of living, prompting fears among Republicans about potential setbacks in the 2026 midterm elections. Trump asserted that prices for gas and groceries were “falling rapidly, and it’s not done yet. But boy, are we making progress.”

In a surprise announcement, Trump said that 1.45 million U.S. service members would each receive a $1,776 “warrior dividend” bonus before Christmas, funded by revenues from tariffs. He noted that the amount commemorates the year of the nation’s founding, in celebration of the 250th anniversary next year.

Trump also forecasted a record-setting economic surge in 2026, coinciding with the U.S., Canada, and Mexico co-hosting the FIFA World Cup.

However, much of the speech focused on familiar targets. Trump repeatedly criticized Biden, the Democrats, and migrants, claiming they “stole American jobs.”

Democrats responded sharply, with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer stating that Trump “lives in a bubble completely disconnected from the reality everyday Americans are seeing and feeling.” He added, “The facts are that prices are going up. Unemployment is going up. And there’s no end in sight.”

Trump’s remarks come after a year of high-profile policy moves, including stricter migration controls and actions targeting political opponents. Yet public concern remains on rising prices, partly driven by tariffs imposed on global trading partners.

Polls reflect voter unease: a PBS News/NPR/Marist poll released Wednesday found 57 percent of Americans disapprove of Trump’s handling of the economy, while a YouGov survey showed 52 percent believe the economy is worsening under his leadership.

Trump has also faced criticism from within his MAGA base for prioritizing foreign peace deals in Ukraine and Gaza, and tensions with Venezuela, over domestic economic issues. During Wednesday’s address, he highlighted the Gaza ceasefire, U.S. actions against Iran’s nuclear program, and efforts to combat drug trafficking.

With midterm elections approaching in 2026, Trump has increased domestic travel to promote his economic agenda. Last week in Pennsylvania, he pledged to “make America affordable again,” and he is scheduled for another campaign-style rally in North Carolina on Friday. Vice President JD Vance, positioning himself for a potential 2028 presidential run, encouraged voters to remain patient in a speech on Tuesday.