This refers to the editorial, “Hitting the right notes” (March 4). US President Donald Trump’s address to the joint session of the Congress was different from his usual style, approach and substance, though not exactly engaging. In all fairness, Trump’s attempts to provide a makeover to his image was evident from the crisp haircut and a blue tie, shunning his traditional red one. His controlled speech aimed at fostering mutual trust and respect between the President and the citizens of the US. The President tried his best to assuage the feelings of the people and calm their frayed nerves. “United we stand as Americans”, appeared to be his mantra in his quest to make “America great again”.
His take on ushering in merit-based immigration will invoke mixed sentiments, but it cannot be faulted in terms of policy. Enhancement of military expenditure was in tune with his pre-presidential assurances.
The dastardly killing of Indian Srinivas Kuchibhotla, in Kansas, was especially mentioned by President Trump, when he asserted that it indeed was a racial crime However, he avoided being specific on agenda-building measures like Obamacare or tax reforms.