Trump Praises Navy, Slams Democrats During 250th Anniversary Celebration

On Sunday, President Donald Trump marked the Navy’s 250th anniversary with a dynamic appearance in Norfolk, Virginia. He delivered a speech reminiscent of a campaign rally, blending honors for the military with pointed political critiques, all while the government shutdown reached its fifth day.

Positioned between an aircraft carrier and an amphibious assault ship, Trump spoke to approximately 10,000 sailors in their dress whites, praising the Navy’s “unmatched strength and spirit.” Above, fighter jets soared through the sky, prompting the crowd to erupt in chants of “U-S-A!”

“Let’s be honest, this is a rally,” Trump stated to enthusiastic applause, recognizing the political atmosphere of his comments.

The president took the opportunity to denounce Democrats for what he referred to as a “Democrat-induced shutdown,” assuring that service members would ultimately receive their full pay despite the interruption in government funding. “We are committed to ensuring our service members receive every last cent they deserve.” "There is no need for concern," he reassured the audience.

The shutdown that commenced on Wednesday has resulted in the furlough of thousands of federal employees and the suspension of infrastructure projects nationwide. Lawmakers continue to hold divided opinions regarding the financial allocations and healthcare elements associated with the Affordable Care Act. Senate Democrats have leveled accusations against Trump for disrupting the budgeting process by withholding funds that Congress approved. At the same time, the administration has considered layoffs in what Trump referred to as “Democrat Agencies.”

Accompanying the president were first lady Melania Trump, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Navy Secretary John Phelan, Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins, and U.S. Rep. Ronny Jackson, R-Texas, who previously served as a Navy rear admiral.

During his visit, Trump boarded the USS George H.W. Bush, where he distributed challenge coins and observed a military demonstration that included missile launches, SEAL helicopter drops, and fighter jet takeoffs.

The president has been progressively linking the military to his domestic initiatives, sending troops for urban patrols and anti-crime operations in various U.S. cities. The Pentagon has been directed to ramp up counter-narcotics operations, leading to recent strikes on vessels suspected of drug smuggling in the Caribbean.

Despite some military leaders voicing concerns over Trump's approach to the armed forces, the audience in Norfolk reacted with enthusiasm to his statements and display of strength on Sunday.

“The Navy has consistently demonstrated its ability to pursue, eliminate, and achieve victory,” Trump stated. “With my guidance, that will never happen.”