Comprehensive border security, and funding for a barrier therein, is the central topic in President Trump’s first Oval Office address. President Trump will speak directly to the American people at the close of Day 18 of a partial government shutdown. The anticipated start time is 9:00pm EST. WH Livestream Link
UPDATE: Video Added
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[Transcript] Oval Office – 9:01 P.M. EST
THE PRESIDENT: My fellow Americans: Tonight, I am speaking to you because there is a growing humanitarian and security crisis at our southern border.
Every day, Customs and Border Patrol agents encounter thousands of illegal immigrants trying to enter our country. We are out of space to hold them, and we have no way to promptly return them back home to their country.
America proudly welcomes millions of lawful immigrants who enrich our society and contribute to our nation. But all Americans are hurt by uncontrolled, illegal migration. It strains public resources and drives down jobs and wages. Among those hardest hit are African Americans and Hispanic Americans.
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