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President Trump Gives His First State of the Union Address (photos)

By Jeff Malet • February 1, 2018 0 1304

President Trump gave his first State of the Union speech on Jan. 30, 2018. Photo by Jeff Malet.

On Tuesday, Jan. 30, President Donald J. Trump delivered his first State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress. The third-longest State of the Union speech on record lasted just over one hour and 20 minutes, during which the president touted the strength of the U.S. economy while stressing the need for immigration reform and a powerful nuclear arsenal. Reflecting the deep divisions on Capitol Hill, Democrats more often remained seated during the many moments of applause, though there were bipartisan ovations for some of the State of the Union guests.

View Jeff Malet’s photos from the House Chamber by clicking on the photo icons below.

: The House Chamber, also known as the “Hall of the House of Representatives”

: Albuquerque N.M. policeman Ryan Holets (center) was a special guest of President Donald J. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump. In December, CNN published a story about Holets’ decision to adopt the baby of a pregnant, homeless drug addict which he encountered on duty. Holets sat next to the First Lady during the speech.

: U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts gazes upward prior to the speech.

: First Lady Melania Trump enters the hall to loud applause.

: Supreme Court Justices Neil Gorsuch, Elena Kagan, John Roberts, Stephen Breyer

: Before he begins, President Trump shakes hands with Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wisc.) while Vice President Mike Pence looks on.

: President Trump gave his first State of the Union speech on Jan. 30, 2018. Photo by Jeff Malet.

: The Senate Democrats cheering section.

: Congressional Democrats wear all black protesting sexism, sexual abuse, and notably, sexual harassment of the kind that Trumo himself has been accused of.

: During one of President Trump’s applause lines, Democrats remain seated, with the exception of Joe Manchin. His state, West Virginia, went strongly for Trump in the last election.

: Republicans stand up and cheer, Democrats remain seated, with the exception of Joe Manchin. His state, West Virginia, went strongly for Trump in the last election.