Trump Addresses Graduates in Alabama Amid Protests
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — President Donald Trump celebrated his first 100 days in office with a visit to the University of Alabama on Thursday, delivering remarks at an off-campus event designed for graduating students. This event was highly anticipated due to Alabama’s strong support for Trump, where he won 64% of the vote in 2024.
Attendees included excited graduates, with many expressing honor at having a sitting president deliver their commencement address. Emily Appel, a 22-year-old advertising major, described Trump’s appearance as “a cherry on top” of her college experience. Another graduate, Sophie Best, reflected on the historic nature of the occasion, noting her participation at Trump’s first inauguration in 2017.
However, Trump’s visit was not without controversy. Hundreds of protesters gathered at a counter-rally organized by the College Democrats, including former Texas Rep. Beto O’Rourke, who critiqued Trump’s policies and praised student activism even in a predominantly Republican state. O’Rourke emphasized the importance of showing up in all communities to address each state’s unique challenges.
Critics, including the Alabama NAACP, voiced concerns over Trump’s impact on universities and marginalized communities. One student, Aidan Meyers, expressed feelings of betrayal regarding the university hosting Trump, highlighting the negative implications for academia and research.
Trump’s Tuscaloosa visit marks his second trip this week, following a rally in Michigan. After Alabama, he plans to travel to Florida for the weekend, with future engagements including a commencement speech at West Point, New York.
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