President Donald Trump is extending his best wishes to President-elect Joe Biden in his final address as president and highlighting what he says are his accomplishments from his four years in office.
In a pre-taped address on Tuesday, Trump said, “As I conclude my term as the 45th President of the United States, I stand before you truly proud of what we have achieved together. We did what we came here to do—and so much more.”
“This week, we inaugurate a new administration and pray for its success in keeping America safe and prosperous. We extend our best wishes, and we also want them to have luck — a very important word.” Trump said.
Trump proceeded to thank his family for their support, the Secret Service for their protection, and members of the Armed Forces and law enforcement officials throughout the country.
“Most of all, I want to thank the American people. To serve as your president has been an honor beyond description. Thank you for this extraordinary privilege. And that’s what it is—a great privilege and a great honor,” he added.
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Trump recounted his success in passing tax cuts, slashing regulations, renegotiating trade deals, withdrawing from the Paris Climate Accord, and economic growth.
“Incomes soared, wages boomed, the American Dream was restored, and millions were lifted from poverty in just a few short years. It was a miracle. The stock market set one record after another, with 148 stock market highs during this short period of time, and boosted the retirements and pensions of hardworking citizens all across our nation. 401(k)s are at a level they’ve never been at before.”
Additionally, he touted the development of two COVID-19 vaccines, which he called a “medical miracle.”
He noted his success in filling around 300 federal judicial vacancies and appointing three Supreme Court justices.
Trump also claimed that under his tenure, the country now has “the most secure border in U.S. history.”
Touting what he sees as successes abroad, Trump noted the military strikes that killed the leader of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) and Iranian General Qasem Soleimani — who he called “the world’s top terrorist.”
He also noted his decision to move the U.S. embassy in Israel to Jerusalem and his administration’s success in getting five Arab nations to normalize relations with Israel.
“It is the dawn of a new Middle East, and we are bringing our soldiers home. I am especially proud to be the first President in decades who has started no new wars,” he said.
Trump warned about what he sees as the greatest threat facing the country, which he said is a “loss of confidence in ourselves” and “a loss of confidence in our national greatness.”
He also cautioned against allowing “political censorship and blacklisting to take place in America.”
“Shutting down free and open debate violates our core values and most enduring traditions,” he said.
As he wound down his remarks, he said, “Now, as I prepare to hand power over to a new administration at noon on Wednesday, I want you to know that the movement we started is only just beginning. There’s never been anything like it. The belief that a nation must serve its citizens will not dwindle but instead only grow stronger by the day.”
“As long as the American people hold in their hearts deep and devoted love of country, then there is nothing that this nation cannot achieve. Our communities will flourish. Our people will be prosperous. Our traditions will be cherished. Our faith will be strong. And our future will be brighter than ever before.”
“I go from this majestic place with a loyal and joyful heart, an optimistic spirit, and a supreme confidence that for our country and for our children, the best is yet to come,” he added.
