Washington, Dec 12 (NationPress) - During the annual White House Congressional Ball on Thursday evening, US President Donald Trump adopted a friendly demeanor, inviting both Democrats and Republicans as he highlighted economic advancements, trade policies, and bipartisan legislative efforts amidst a formal gathering in the Cross Hall.

The festivities commenced shortly after 8 p.m., with guests adorned in tuxedos and formal gowns occupying every inch of the Cross Hall, leaving little space to navigate. The President’s Own Marine Band performed near the entrance, while Vice President JD Vance and Second Lady Usha Vance greeted lawmakers and their spouses as they awaited the President's entrance.

Fifteen minutes later, Trump and First Lady Melania Trump made their entrance down the Grand Staircase, beneath portraits of past Presidents George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush. Trump appeared invigorated by the crowd, with the First Lady by his side at the podium.

In his initial remarks, Trump explicitly recognized the Democratic lawmakers present. “I see some friendly faces, but they could be friendlier,” he quipped, eliciting laughter. He described it as “a tremendous tribute that so many Democrats have joined us today, at a high level.”

He took the opportunity to address a longstanding aspiration of the White House, stating that presidents have aimed to construct a large ballroom for over a century. “For 150 years, they’ve tried to build a ballroom. They never succeeded, but we did,” he noted, promising completion of the project in about a year and a half.

Trump recounted attending various holiday events, expressing that demand far surpassed the venue's capacity. “Eleven people are turned down for every one that makes it,” he remarked, calling the turnout “a very good feeling.”

Shifting focus to the economy, Trump asserted that the United States had witnessed “over $18 trillion” in investments over the past 10 months, indicating that this figure could increase by year-end. He contrasted this with the previous administration's “less than $1 trillion over four years.” He also mentioned consistent stock market highs and increasing wages, claiming, “real wages are up for the typical worker by more than $1,000 annually.”

He urged lawmakers to momentarily set aside political conflicts for the evening. “So tonight we are going to set aside all political differences. We’re not going to criticize each other. We love each other, and we’re going to unite,” he stated.

Trump proceeded to acknowledge several congressional leaders, including Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise. Recounting Scalise’s 2017 shooting incident, Trump remarked that doctors “thought he wasn’t going to make it,” and mentioned that Scalise’s wife “was devastated.” He reflected on Scalise’s recovery and how he later participated in a congressional baseball game, calling it “a miracle.”

He also joked about House Majority Whip Tom Emmer from Minnesota, saying, “You are a difficult man,” and playfully noted Emmer’s friendly relations with Somalians, prompting laughter.

On trade, Trump reiterated his claim that tariffs have significantly decreased the federal deficit. “The tariffs have lowered the deficit by 64 percent,” he stated, while also asserting that more Americans are employed than ever before.

Trump underscored bipartisan support for Melania Trump’s “Take It Down” Act, which he noted passed with nearly unanimous backing. The First Lady briefly addressed the audience, expressing gratitude for their support and hinting at another legislative initiative she plans to pursue.

After their speeches, the President and First Lady ascended the staircase back to the residence without mingling with guests.

The Congressional Ball is a cherished tradition at the White House held during the Christmas and New Year holiday season, uniting lawmakers, administration officials, and their families. It often represents a rare moment of enforced civility within a typically polarized political landscape.