Language and Power: A Critical Discourse Analysis of Political Speeches in English

Abstract

This study explores the intersection of language and power through a critical discourse analysis (CDA) of Donald Trump's "America First" Inaugural Address. By applying Norman Fairclough's three-dimensional model of CDA, the research examines how Trump's rhetoric constructs and reinforces political ideologies, mobilizes public sentiment, and legitimizes power structures. The analysis focuses on the ways in which Trump's language frames social issues, assigns blame to political elites, and promises restoration of national pride and prosperity. The findings reveal that Trump's speech employs a populist discourse that strategically invokes economic and cultural anxieties to consolidate power and authority. This study contributes to the broader understanding of how political discourse functions to shape public perception and influence socio-political dynamics in contemporary contexts.