Trump presents his plan to Congress

What Did Trump Say About Taxes in His 2025 Speech?

PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP laid out his plan for the nation in his first address to Congress on Tuesday since beginning his second term on Jan. 20. AAHOA was the first industry group to commend his commitment to the American Dream, even as markets reacted negatively to his rapid moves on the economy, immigration and foreign policy amid federal restructuring, strained alliances and trade uncertainty.

Trump's statement, "The American Dream is unstoppable," resonates deeply with AAHOA members—entrepreneurs, small business owners, and job creators in hospitality, the association said in a statement.

"President Trump's proposals are the tax reforms our industry needs,” said Miraj Patel, AAHOA chairman. “That's why AAHOA will be in Washington, D.C., on March 11 to 12 to advocate for these critical measures. We look forward to engaging with lawmakers to ensure America's hotel owners are heard. Tax relief and pro-business policies are essential to keeping the hotel industry strong."

The speech came as Trump made headlines for imposing 25 percent tariffs on Canada and Mexico, adding 10 percent on Chinese imports, and cutting military aid to Ukraine during its war with Russia. However, he said tariffs “are about making America rich again and making America great again."

Meanwhile, the president criticized Democrats and the Biden administration for rising costs.

"I look at the Democrats in front of me and realize there's nothing I can say to make them happy," Trump said. "We inherited an economic catastrophe and an inflation nightmare from the last administration."

Trump also emphasized ending DEI initiatives.

"You should be hired and promoted based on skill and competence, not race or gender," he said.

However, AAHOA praised the focus on tax relief for families and small businesses and urged bipartisan support to extend and expand cuts. The association backed Trump's proposal to eliminate taxes on tips, overtime pay and social security benefits. It expects these measures to benefit millions of hospitality workers and help small business owners reinvest in their employees, businesses, and communities.

The association said reducing the tax burden on small businesses and employees will drive innovation, expansion, and economic growth in hospitality.

AAHOA president and CEO Laura Lee Blake said entrepreneurs drive the hospitality industry by pursuing the American Dream.

"AAHOA applauds President Trump for recognizing the vital role of small business owners and advancing policies that drive economic growth, job creation and financial security for our workforce," she said.

The association remains committed to fair taxation, capital access and a level playing field for small businesses and looks forward to working with the administration and Congress to enact these tax reforms.

Trump’s address became the longest presidential speech to Congress, surpassing Bill Clinton’s 1-hour, 28-minute State of the Union in January 2000. Democratic Rep. Al Green of Texas caused a disruption and was escorted out of the chamber while other Democrats held up signs saying “False,” “Save Medicaid” and “Musk steals,” the last referring to billionaire Elon Musk who is leading Trumps efforts to reduce waste and fraud.

In February, Kashyap “Kash” Patel became the FBI's ninth director after a 51 to 49 Senate vote, with AAHOA offering congratulations.