Washington — President Donald Trump on Tuesday delivered a wide-ranging address to the nation in which he declared the United States “back, stronger than ever,” crediting his first 11 months in office with reversing inflation, securing the southern border, and restoring American strength at home and abroad.

Speaking from the White House, Trump said he inherited “a mess,” pointing to high inflation, rising consumer prices, and what he described as an unprecedented border crisis under the previous administration. He accused Democrats of policies that, in his words, made life unaffordable for millions of Americans and weakened national security.

The president claimed his administration has effectively shut down illegal border crossings, asserting that no unauthorized migrants have been allowed into the country for seven months. He said criminals are being deported, cities are safer, and drug trafficking has fallen sharply, crediting tougher enforcement and action against foreign cartels.

Trump devoted much of the speech to the economy, arguing that inflation has been “stopped” and that prices for everyday goods — including gas, groceries, airfare, and housing — are now falling. He said wages are rising faster than inflation and claimed all net job growth since he took office has come from the private sector, with jobs going exclusively to American-born workers.

Highlighting his trade agenda, Trump praised tariffs as a tool to bring manufacturing back to the United States, saying companies are building factories at record levels in industries such as automobiles and artificial intelligence. He also touted what he called a record $18 trillion in new investment commitments.

The president announced major tax relief under what he called the “One Big, Beautiful Bill,” including eliminating taxes on tips, overtime pay, and Social Security benefits. He said many families would save between $11,000 and $20,000 a year and predicted the largest tax refund season in U.S. history.

In one of the speech’s most notable announcements, Trump said more than 1.45 million U.S. military service members will receive a one-time $1,776 “Warrior Dividend” payment before Christmas, funded by tariff revenue and recent legislation. He also claimed military recruitment has surged after hitting historic lows last year.

Trump further promised steep reductions in prescription drug prices through a “Most Favored Nation” policy and renewed attacks on the Affordable Care Act, which he labeled the “Unaffordable Care Act.” He said future reforms would shift money directly to individuals to purchase health insurance, lowering costs and reducing the role of insurance companies.

On energy, the president blamed prior “green energy” policies for high electricity prices and said gas prices have fallen below $2.50 per gallon in much of the country. He declared that 1,600 new power plants would be built within the next year and pledged further drops in energy costs.

Concluding the address, Trump said the U.S. is on the brink of an economic boom and renewed global respect, pointing to upcoming events such as the World Cup, the Olympics, and the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026. “America is respected again,” he said, wishing Americans a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.