Daijiworld Media Network - Washington
Washington, Jan 1: US President Donald Trump marked the arrival of the New Year with a message of global peace during celebrations at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, before offering an expansive and upbeat assessment of the nation’s economic and strategic standing.
Responding to a question about his New Year’s resolution at the New Year’s Eve gathering, Trump replied simply, “Peace. Peace on earth. Peace on earth.” He did not address queries related to foreign policy matters, including intelligence operations or military involvement overseas.
The New Year’s Eve event, hosted by Trump and the First Lady, drew a large number of prominent guests and unfolded in a lavish, carefully choreographed setting. According to a White House pool report, the atmosphere was celebratory and theatrical, with elaborate décor and live music throughout the evening.
Guests were welcomed by a black carpet emblazoned with “Happy New Year Mar A Lago” in gold lettering. Musicians, positioned on raised platforms amid tall white candles, performed patriotic tunes such as “God Bless America” and the US national anthem. Inside the ballroom, an expansive white floral installation framed the entrance, while a live band entertained attendees.
Addressing the gathering, Trump said the United States was performing strongly across multiple fronts. He highlighted what he described as record levels of investment entering the country and pointed to new factories being established nationwide. He also cited economic growth figures that, according to him, had surpassed earlier forecasts.
The President further spoke about revenue generated through tariffs and reiterated his support for robust military funding, asserting that the country had regained strength and global standing. Expressing confidence in the pace of change, Trump said the turnaround had happened faster than many had anticipated.
During his remarks, Trump praised Republican Congressman Tom Emmer and acknowledged several leaders present at the event. He also referred to alleged large-scale financial irregularities, claiming authorities were uncovering massive losses and promising that the funds would be recovered.
One of the highlights of the evening was a live art performance by artist Vanessa Horabuena, whom Trump introduced as one of the world’s leading artists. As music played, she created a painting on stage, which was later revealed to be a portrait of Jesus. Trump auctioned the artwork for charity, with proceeds earmarked for St. Jude’s and a local sheriff’s department. After spirited bidding, the painting sold for $2.75 million.
The guest list included several political figures, business leaders, and members of the Trump family. Among those seen at the event were Donald Trump Jr., Eric and Lara Trump, Rudy Giuliani, businessman Phil Ruffin, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, and White House deputy chief of staff Dan Scavino. An Instagram post suggested that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was also among the attendees.
Concluding his remarks, Trump reiterated his claims of widespread financial misconduct uncovered by authorities and vowed continued investigations. He described the effort as part of a broader renewal, expressing optimism as the country entered the New Year.