2020 State of the Union address: on Foreign Policy


Donald Trump: Restore democracy in Cuba & Venezuela

As we restore American leadership throughout the world, we are once again standing up for freedom in our hemisphere. That is why my Administration reversed the failing policies of the previous administration on Cuba. We are supporting the hopes of Cubans, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans to restore democracy. The United States is leading a 59-nation diplomatic coalition against the socialist dictator of Venezuela, Nicolas Maduro. Maduro is an illegitimate ruler, a tyrant who brutalizes his people. But Maduro's grip of tyranny will be smashed and broken. Here this evening is a man who carries with him the hopes, dreams, and aspirations of all Venezuelans. Joining us in the gallery is the true and legitimate President of Venezuela, Juan Guaido. Mr. President, please take this message back to your homeland. All Americans are united with the Venezuelan people in their righteous struggle for freedom! Socialism destroys nations. But always remember, freedom unifies the soul.
Source: 2020 State of the Union address to Congress Feb 4, 2020

Donald Trump: We rebuilt military; America stronger than ever

I am thrilled to report to you tonight that our economy is the best it has ever been. Our military is completely rebuilt, with its power being unmatched anywhere in the world--and it is not even close. Our borders are secure. Our families are flourishing. Our values are renewed. Our pride is restored. And for all these reasons, I say to the people of our great country, and to the Members of Congress before me: The State of our Union is stronger than ever before!
Source: 2020 State of the Union address to Congress Feb 4, 2020

Veronica Escobar: Puerto Rico still rebuilding after 2017 Hurricane Maria

Escobar [noted how] the president's rhetoric has targeted Latinos and immigrants more broadly. "In America, our diversity makes us stronger--it is what uplifts all voices and makes us an inclusive, dynamic country," she said in Spanish. "Yet, the president clearly does not share this belief." She acknowledged Puerto Ricans' struggle to rebuild in the wake of Hurricane Maria in 2017. And she pointed out how Trump's immigration policies have harmed immigrants living in the US, including so-called DREAMers, who may lose their legal status if the president's efforts to dismantle Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals prevails; immigrant families who were separated on the border; migrant children who have died in immigration custody; and migrants who face dangerous conditions waiting in Mexico for their chance to seek asylum in the US. "These are policies none of us ever imagined would happen in America in our lifetime," she said.
Source: Vox.com on Democratic rebuttal to 2020 State of the Union Feb 4, 2020

  • The above quotations are from 2020 State of the Union address to Congress, plus the Democratic responses, Feb. 4, 2020.
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