MONTGOMERY, Ala. — President Donald Trump is set to visit the predominantly Republican state of Alabama on Thursday, where he will deliver a speech to graduating students at the University of Alabama. This event is expected to attract both fervent supporters and protesters, reflecting the polarized political climate of the nation. Trump’s address in Tuscaloosa marks his first commencement speech of his second term, coinciding with the celebration of the first 100 days of his administration.
While specific details regarding Trump’s planned message have not been disclosed by the White House, the significance of this event is clear. Alabama has been a stronghold for Trump, who secured an impressive 64% of the vote in the state during the 2024 election. Over the past decade, he has hosted numerous large rallies in Alabama, showcasing his popularity and the state’s enthusiastic support for his presidency.
It is important to note that although the White House has labeled Trump’s speech as a commencement address, it is actually a special event that occurs prior to the official graduation ceremonies, which are scheduled to begin on Friday. Graduating students have the option to attend this event, but participation is not mandatory. Joining Trump at the event will be former Crimson Tide football coach Nick Saban, adding another layer of local celebrity to the occasion.
Governor Kay Ivey, a Republican, expressed her enthusiasm for Trump’s visit, stating, “As President Trump marks 100 days in office, there is no better place for him to celebrate all the winning than in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.” However, this visit has not been without controversy. The Alabama NAACP and the University of Alabama College Democrats have criticized Trump’s policies, arguing that they negatively impact universities and students, particularly those of color.
In response to Trump’s visit, the College Democrats are organizing a counter-rally titled “Tide Against Trump,” a nod to the university’s iconic nickname. This rally will feature prominent speakers, including former presidential candidate Beto O’Rourke from Texas and former U.S. Senator Doug Jones, the last Democrat to hold statewide office in Alabama. Benard Simelton, president of the Alabama NAACP, remarked, “The decision for students of color, and really all students, should be to skip his speech and spend that time reflecting on how to make America a more inclusive nation.”
Trump’s upcoming visit to Alabama is his second trip within the week, having held a rally in Michigan on Tuesday to commemorate the first 100 days of his presidency. Since officially taking office on January 20, he has limited his travel, primarily addressing the public through impromptu news conferences in the Oval Office and various White House events.
Following his address in Alabama, Trump is scheduled to head to Florida for a long weekend at his Mar-a-Lago resort. Additionally, he is set to deliver the commencement address at the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York, next month, further emphasizing his continued engagement with key national events.
___ Price reported from Birmingham, Alabama.
