NAACP Reacts to Trump’s First Congressional Address of his Second Administration
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 5, 2025
Contact: Alicia Mercedes, amercedes@naacpnet.org
WASHINGTON - On Tuesday night, President Donald J. Trump delivered a Congressional address, reflecting on the first days of his presidency and doubling down on a hate-fueled policy agenda that stands to negatively impact millions of Americans. The 9o-minute speech was characterized by a disregard for the truth and the good of the American people. Ahead of the Congressional Address, the NAACP launched its '100 Days of Receipts' blog to provide factual updates on the Trump Administration's policies and their impacts on Americans.
NAACP President & CEO, Derrick Johnson, and NAACP Chief of Policy & Legislative Affairs, Patrice Willoughby released the following joint reaction:
"Time and time again, Donald Trump proves that he is disastrous for democracy. Instead of addressing the most pressing concerns of Americans and unifying our nation, he chose to spew falsehoods and fascism. The American people deserve better. As his Administration works with their cronies in Congress to dismantle veterans benefits, Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, SNAP, and other support programs, Trump continues to lie, manipulate, and cause chaos both at home and abroad.
Let's be clear - this is not just a Black issue. It's a red, white, and blue issue. The NAACP has, and will continue to advocate for the betterment of all Americans. We understand that a people united can never be conquered. Now is the time to cross the false boundaries of race, gender, religion, or socioeconomic status and band together as one nation that shares a common goal - making Democracy work."
The United States Congress is currently deliberating a fiscal budget proposed by the Trump Administration and pushed by the House Republicans. If passed as is, the proposed budget will slash safety net programs like Social Security and veterans benefits in order to give tax cuts to the ultra-wealthy.
With federal funding expected to run out by March 14th, the NAACP is calling on Americans to take urgent action in lobbying Congress in opposition of the disastrous budget.
###
ABOUT NAACP
The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.
NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.