PHOENIX — President-elect Donald Trump delivered his first rally-style speech since his election victory on December 22, 2024, during the annual AmericaFest event, captivating supporters with promises and strong assertions on various key issues.
Addressing thousands of enthusiastic conservative activists, Trump dismissed claims of ceding responsibilities to billionaire Elon Musk, stating, "No, he’s not going to be president, I can tell you. And I’m safe. You know why he can’t be? He wasn’t born in this country." This comment aimed to quell concerns over Musk's significant role influencing Trump's transition and policy direction. Musk's involvement had stirred speculation among political commentators and opponents, dubbing him "President Musk" due to his high visibility and vocal opposition to recent legislative moves.
Trump, who appeared energized and eager to rally his base, touched upon U.S. foreign policy, including relations with Russia. "President Putin said he wants to meet with me as soon as possible. We have to wait for this, but we have to end the war. That war is horrible, horrible," he remarked, underscoring his commitment to swiftly resolving the conflict with Ukraine. This pledge included Trump’s assertion during his campaign to resolve the war within 24 hours of assuming office.
Shifting to issues concerning the Panama Canal, Trump bemoaned the high fees charged by Panama, stating, "We’re being ripped off at the Panama Canal like we’re being ripped off everywhere else." His rhetoric hinted at his desire to renegotiate terms established by the 1977 treaty returning control of the canal to Panama.
Panama's President, José Raúl Mulino, quickly responded via social media, asserting, "Every square meter of the Panama Canal and the surrounding area belongs to Panama, and will continue to. The sovereignty and independence of our country are non-negotiable." This exchange highlighted the potential friction between Trump’s administration and international partners.
Throughout his speech, Trump also outlined aggressive plans for his incoming administration — promising tariffs targeting Europe, Canada, and Mexico, and reigniting the political discourse on drug use with campaigns emphasizing drug dangers. "We are going to advertise how bad drugs are for you," he announced, painting addiction and its consequences graphically to rally support for his public health initiatives.
With Musk looming large over Trump's political narrative, speculation about their relationship's dynamics persisted. Trump benefitted from Musk’s backing throughout the election campaign, during which Musk reportedly contributed over $200 million to Trump’s political action committee. Trump’s critique of outmoded spending policies and government inefficiencies was echoed by Musk's proactive engagement, reflecting their shared interests.
Trump's remarks on tariffs were bold as he stated he would no longer allow the U.S. to be seen as "a dumping ground" for goods from foreign nations. His threats rang clear and his rhetoric drew support from congressional allies who expressed eagerness to collaborate on reforming trade policies.
His rhetoric also hinted at social issues, attacking what he described as "woke nonsense," indicating his focus on remapping American societal issues during his second term. "Woke has to stop. It’s destroying our country. Woke is bulls***," he asserted emphatically, pledging to eliminate race theory and other cultural debates he identifies as harmful.
Trump closed his speech on an upbeat note, rallying support with his signature chant, "Together we will fight, fight, fight, and together we will win, win, win!" Seemingly no distance from the controversies surrounding him, Trump appeared ready to take office on January 20, 2025, embracing the energy of his support base and the promises of his presidency. Smoke and pyrotechnics accompanied his exit, highlighting the drama and fervor surrounding his political return.
