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President Trump took full advantage of the large television audience for his State of the Union speech on Tuesday to make his case for reelection in November, touting the strong economy and delighting Republicans in the room with a 

President Trump's third State of the Union address

But his address also laid bare his bitter partisan standoff with Democrats and left little doubt that legislative accomplishments between now and the election will be difficult, if not impossible.

Before declaring that "the state of our union is stronger than ever before," Trump appeared to snub Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, turning away as she reached out to shake his hand after he handed her a copy of his remarks.

After Trump finished speaking, as Republicans cheered, she theatrically 

, Pelosi called the speech a "manifesto of mistruths."

Trump made no mention of his impeachment, the hearings and trial that have riveted Washington for months, even as House impeachment managers sat together in a row before him. Neither did Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who 

. Trump also made no overt mention of the 2020 election, though Republicans did chant "Four more years!" as Trump entered the chamber.

Rep. Veronica Escobar calls Trump 'the greatest threat'

The address hit many of the same themes that are staples in Trump's arena rally speeches — celebrating his record on job creation and increased defense spending, and warnings about immigration — but without some of the vitriol that thrills his supporters.

, labeling Democrats who support universal health care "socialists."

He called on Congress to pass legislation to lower prescription drug prices — a big issue for voters — mentioning a Senate bill proposed by Iowa Republican Chuck Grassley but opposed by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. In return, House Democrats chanted "HR 3!" — 

the name of a sweeping bill on drug prices passed by the House in December

There were a few moments in Trump's speech that 

yielded applause from both Democrats and Republicans

, such as when Trump hailed Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaidó in the House gallery, a signal of bipartisan support for Guaidó and his efforts to restore democracy in Venezuela.

Again and again in his speech, Trump talked about policies aimed at black Americans: his support for historically black colleges, school vouchers and "

" tax breaks for investment in designated low-income neighborhoods. 

His campaign is making a push to secure more votes from African Americans

, to nudge support higher than the 8 percent he got in 2016 in key swing states where it could make a difference.

 found that 8 in 10 black Americans say they believe Trump is "a racist," and 9 in 10 disapprove of his job performance.

One of Trump's most reality-show-inspired moments underscored the challenge he faces with African American voters. In the middle of his address, Trump gave the nation's highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, to 

, a conservative talk radio host whom many African Americans view with suspicion because of his past comments on race, including disparaging remarks about former President Barack Obama.

An emotional Limbaugh, who this week announced he has been diagnosed with advanced lung cancer, stood and rubbed his eyes as first lady Melania Trump fixed the medal around his neck. Republicans stood and cheered, and Democrats stayed seated. 

Politics and Government News

Election 2020

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Republicans loved the made-for-television moments in President Trump's third State of the Union speech as he made his case for reelection. Democrats did not.

Trump delivers State of the Union address to a divided nation

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