Trump Touts Energy Policy, Hints at 'Friendly Takeover' of Cuba in Texas Speech

Former president promotes his second-term record, attacks Democrats in wide-ranging address at Port of Corpus Christi

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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In a speech at the Port of Corpus Christi in Texas, former President Donald Trump touted his administration's energy policies, hinted at a 'friendly takeover' of Cuba, and attacked Democrats as he promoted his second-term record. While the event was billed as an address on energy, Trump jumped between various topics, including immigration, Venezuela, and the upcoming midterm elections.

Why it matters

Trump's speech touched on several key political issues, including his continued claims of election fraud, his administration's policies towards Cuba and Venezuela, and the upcoming midterm elections. His remarks highlight the former president's ongoing influence within the Republican Party and his efforts to shape the political landscape.

The details

While Trump claimed credit for lowering gas prices, he spent much of the speech attacking Democrats and promoting his own record. He defended his administration's controversial immigration policies, suggested he might direct a 'friendly takeover' of Cuba, and ramped up calls for changes to election laws that he said would prevent Democrats from winning future elections. Trump also teased the possibility of a third presidential term, despite the Constitution's two-term limit.

  • Trump delivered the speech on Friday, February 28, 2026.
  • The speech came just days before a heated U.S. Senate primary in Texas that pits incumbent John Cornyn against two challengers, state Attorney General Ken Paxton and U.S. Rep. Wesley Hunt.

The players

Donald Trump

The former president of the United States who delivered the speech at the Port of Corpus Christi.

John Cornyn

The incumbent U.S. Senator from Texas who is facing a primary challenge.

Ken Paxton

The Texas Attorney General who is challenging Cornyn in the Republican primary for the U.S. Senate seat.

Wesley Hunt

A U.S. Representative who is also challenging Cornyn in the Republican primary for the U.S. Senate seat.

Nicolás Maduro

The former leftist president of Venezuela who was deposed by the Trump administration.

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What they’re saying

“We could very well end up having a friendly takeover of Cuba after many, many years. They're in big trouble, and we could very well (do) something good, I think, very positive for the people that were expelled or worse, from Cuba that live here.”

— Donald Trump (northdakotamonitor.com)

“They will never win because their policy is no good. They want men playing in women's sports. They want transgender for everyone. They want open borders so that the world's criminals can pour into our country, which we've done a good job. I'll tell you what: ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) has done such a great job.”

— Donald Trump (northdakotamonitor.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Trump's speech highlighted his continued influence within the Republican Party and his efforts to shape the political landscape, including through his claims of election fraud and calls for changes to election laws. The speech also underscored the former president's willingness to make controversial statements, such as his suggestion of a 'friendly takeover' of Cuba.