Trump condemns 'hate, evil' directed at minorities, immigrants in congressional speech

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President Trump condemns threats against Jewish centers

President Trump opens joint session of Congress

President Trump began his first address to Congress Tuesday by acknowledging the apparent recent surge in anti-Semitism and the fatal attack on an Indian immigrant in Kansas, saying the country “stands united in condemning hate and evil.”

The remarks were an unexpected start, considering much of America was anticipating what the Republican president, just one month into office, would say about such issues as immigration, federal spending and the future of entitlements.

“As we mark the conclusion of our celebration of Black History Month, we are reminded of our nation's path toward civil rights and the work that still remains,” Trump said.

“Recent threats targeting Jewish Community Centers and vandalism of Jewish cemeteries, as well as last week's shooting in Kansas City remind us that while we may be a nation divided on policies, we are a country that stands united in condemning hate and evil in all its forms.”

Trump’s strict immigration stances have sparked criticism that he and his policies are non-inclusive.

Critics also have argued that the White House’s failure to recognize Jews specifically on Holocaust Remembrance Day last month was an indication that Trump and some of his supporters could be anti-Semitic.

In Kansas, a purported Navy veteran has been charged with the fatal shooting of an Indian immigrant.