
By Peter Aitken and Gabe WhisnantShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberPresident Donald Trump used a Christmas message on social media to praise what he described as strong economic and security gains under his administration, while sharply criticizing political opponents in a post that mixed holiday greetings with campaign-style rhetoric.
Why It Matters
Trump has faced criticism throughout his second administration for his use of what some call divisive language, particularly when discussing the Democrats and left-wing politicians. Lawmakers urged the president to temper his language, especially in light of the rise in political violence over the past several months following the assassinations of Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman, a Democrat, and conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Trump took an especially strident tone when addressing a video by several Democratic lawmakers who appeared in a video urging military and intelligence personnel to "refuse illegal orders." Trump responded by saying the act was "seditious" and "punishable by death."
Democratic leaders condemned the president's comments, saying "political violence has no place in America."
...What To Know
The president posted on Truth Social Wednesday night, "Merry Christmas to all, including the Radical Left Scum that is doing everything possible to destroy our Country, but are failing badly."
"We no longer have Open Borders, Men in Women’s Sports, Transgender for Everyone, or Weak Law Enforcement," Trump wrote. "What we do have is a Record Stock Market and 401K’s, Lowest Crime numbers in decades, No Inflation, and yesterday, a 4.3 GDP, two points better than expected."
"Tariffs have given us Trillions of Dollars in Growth and Prosperity, and the strongest National Security we have ever had. We are respected again, perhaps like never before. God Bless America!!! President DJT" he concluded.
What People Are Saying
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's office, on X: "The holiday season is a time to rest, reconnect, and celebrate with the people that you love the most. Prime Minister Carney wishes everyone a #MerryChristmas."
U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres, on X: "My warmest wishes to everyone celebrating Christmas. This season offers and opportunity for reflection and compassion. All of us can bring more empathy and solidarity into our communities and around the world."
National Council of Iran leader Reza Pahlavi, on X: "As I extend my best wishes to all those celebrating Christmas, I am writing to Pope Leo XIV asking him to be a voice for the Christians of my country, Iran. Your Holiness, in this season of peace, my people are suffering persecution. I ask you to hear their voice."
British Green Party leader Zack Polanski, on X: "Oh GB News. Have a day off and enjoy a mince pie. How dare I talk positively about migration & refugee rights at this time of year that should be about *checks notes* good tidings and warm wishes. Tune in at 3pm to watch and judge for yourself. Merry Christmas everyone!"
U.S. Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle, on X: "As we gather with loved ones and reflect on the incredible year this has been, I send my heartfelt wishes for a joyful Christmas holiday. God bless Greece, the United States, and the people of our two great nations."
Update 12/24/25, 8:25 p.m. ET: This article has been updated with additional information.
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