Senator Chuck Schumer delivered sharp criticism of President Donald Trump’s recent address to Congress, calling it filled with falsehoods and harmful policies. The Democratic leader highlighted concerns about economic impacts and threats to social programs while framing Trump’s agenda as favoring billionaires over working families.
### Schumer’s Core Criticisms
Schumer described Trump’s speech as a “deluge of falsehoods, misrepresentations, and outright lies,” labeling it the “most dishonest presidential address in American history.” He criticized Trump for falsely portraying economic progress, noting rising inflation, grocery costs, and gas prices under Trump’s policies. Schumer contrasted Trump’s remarks with Representative Elissa Slotkin’s rebuttal, stating: “There was more truth in 10 minutes of Elissa Slotkin’s rebuttal than 2 hours of Donald Trump’s longwinded diatribe”.
Schumer warned that Trump’s policies would accelerate a “transfer of wealth” to billionaires at the expense of working Americans:
– : Trump and Republicans proposed cutting $880 billion from Medicaid while reducing Social Security staffing, which Schumer called a direct threat to seniors and families.
– : New tariffs on Canada and Mexico could raise costs for groceries, cars, and homebuilding by an estimated $2,000 per household annually.
– : Schumer linked market declines to Trump’s “ill-conceived trade wars” and erratic economic decisions.
### Democratic Response
Schumer emphasized organizing efforts to counter Trump’s agenda, targeting vulnerable Republican lawmakers in states like New York. He urged voters to focus on policy outcomes rather than rhetoric: “Americans will look at what he has done, not what he says, and see the destruction he’s beginning to wreak”. Democrats plan to spotlight GOP efforts to cut Medicaid funding for rural health centers and nursing homes, framing it as part of a broader pattern of prioritizing tax cuts for the wealthy.
### Broader Political Context
Schumer’s critiques reflect Democratic concerns about Trump’s divisive rhetoric and policy direction. While Trump’s base may applaud his combative style, Schumer argued that rising costs and program cuts would alienate moderate voters. The senator’s focus on economic inequality and Social Security protections aligns with Democratic messaging ahead of the 2026 midterms.
