Who's Elissa Slotkin, Michigan senator who responded to Trump's speech
What's the story
Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin delivered the Democratic response to President Donald Trump's joint address to Congress. At 48, she is the youngest Democratic woman elected to the US Senate. She won her seat by defeating former GOP Representative Mike Rogers, who had Trump's endorsement, by a margin of 19,000 votes in November.
Career path
Slotkin's political journey and national security expertise
Prior to her Senate role, Slotkin spent six years in the House of Representatives. Her career also includes being a CIA analyst and working in national security under Presidents George W Bush and Barack Obama. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer praised Slotkin as "a rising star in our party," telling reporters ahead of her speech that "the American people are going to love what she has to say. She's just great on both economic and national security."
Political stance
Slotkin's bipartisan tendencies and response to Trump
Slotkin's campaign emphasized Democratic priorities such as abortion access and gun control. However, she has also demonstrated bipartisan tendencies, such as when she sided with Republicans to pass the Laken Riley Act. This law requires the detention of undocumented migrants charged with certain crimes. In her response speech to Trump from Wyandotte, Michigan, Slotkin spoke about core American beliefs: economy, national security, and democracy.
Policy critique
Slotkin's criticism of Trump's economic policies
Slotkin argued that while Trump has spoken "a big game" about the economy, particularly when it comes to implementing tariffs, the "fine print" of his proposals will not help everyone. "His tariffs on allies like Canada will raise prices on energy, lumber and cars and start a trade war that will hurt manufacturing and firms," she said. Slotkin also slammed the Trump administration's firing and rehiring of federal employees on Elon Musk's advice.
Immigration stance
Slotkin's views on immigration and foreign policy
"No CEO in America could do that without being summarily fired," she said about Trump and Musk. Regarding national security issues and border issues, Slotkin emphasized her military history and work to safeguard the US. She called for a functional immigration system that meets economic needs and permits vetted individuals to work legally in the US. She also slammed Trump's recent interaction with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, saying it "summed up Trump's whole approach to the world."