President Donald Trump delivered a commencement address at the University of Alabama on Thursday night, just before the official graduation ceremonies. This was a significant moment as it marked the first time a sitting president has spoken at the university.
In his speech, Trump encouraged the graduating students to avoid viewing themselves as victims. He emphasized the importance of taking charge of one’s own destiny and not blaming others for challenges. "Don’t consider yourself a victim. Consider yourself a winner," he said, urging young people to reject the idea of victimhood.
Trump’s address was part of a special event that also featured remarks from university president Stuart R. Bell and former Alabama football coach Nick Saban. During his speech, Trump highlighted successes from his first 100 days in office and made pointed comments about his political opponents.
He referred to the graduating class as "the first graduating class of the Golden Age of America" and reminded them that they are the ones who will shape the future. "The next chapter of the American story will not be written by the Harvard Crimson. It will be written by you – The Crimson Tide," he said, rallying the students to embrace their potential.
While many students and attendees cheered for Trump, the event was not without controversy. The university’s College Democrats organized a rally called "Tide Against Trump," featuring former Democratic presidential candidate Beto O’Rourke. They expressed their disapproval of Trump’s involvement in the commencement, calling him "unpopular, divisive, and authoritarian."
The Alabama chapter of the NAACP also criticized Trump’s appearance, comparing his rhetoric to that of segregationist George Wallace. They voiced their concerns about the president’s impact on the university community.
Overall, Trump’s address was a mix of motivational advice and political commentary, aimed at inspiring the new graduates while also addressing current political issues.