Trump shames Democrats in viral State of the Union challenge on migrant crime: ‘First duty’

By Fox News · Fox News

Immigration enforcement and border security were front and center in President Donald Trump ’s State of the Union address Tuesday night, with the commander in chief touting zero illegal border crossings over the past nine months. Of the words Trump mentioned most, "border" was tied with "tax" for first place at 16 mentions. He also spoke extensively about national security and immigration. One of the most impactful moments of the night came when Trump challenged every lawmaker in the chamber to stand if they believed their first duty is to protect American citizens rather than illegal immigrants. "One of the great things about the State of the Union is how it gives Americans the chance to see clearly what their representatives really believe," Trump said. "So tonight, I'm inviting every legislator to join with my administration in reaffirming a fundamental principle: if you agree with this statement, then stand up and show your support: The first duty of the American government is to protect American citizens, not illegal aliens." As Trump said this, the Republican side of the chamber stood, while Democrats remained seated, prompting condemnation from the president. HOUSE SPEAKER MIKE JOHNSON, R-LA., RIPS DEMS' 'ANTICS' DURING SOTU, DOESN'T COMMIT TO PUNISHING THEM "Isn't that a shame? You should be ashamed of yourself for not standing up. You should be ashamed of yourself," Trump repeated. He then called on Democrats to end sanctuary policies across the country, saying, "That is why I'm also asking you to end deadly sanctuary cities that protect the criminals and enact serious penalties for public officials who blocked the removal of criminal aliens, in many cases, drug lords, murderers all over our country." "They're blocking the removal of these people from our country, and you should be ashamed of yourselves," he said. He also slammed Democrats for having "closed the agency responsible for protecting Americans from terrorists and murderers," referring to the De…