If anyone else but Donald J. Trump was president right now, you'd hear not a peep out of Washington and folks everywhere would be naming their kids after the leader of the free world.

Times in America are good, though the political rancor certainly does not reflect that. It's a shame, really, since life and economies happen in cycles and you really should enjoy the good times while you can, because the ride to the other side can sometimes be bumpy.

Last week I suggested that House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-California) had a golden opportunity to end the partisanship that has stagnated Washington for too long. She appears unwilling or unable to do that. Too bad. It's not too late and I think most Americans would welcome a thawing of the political system.

President Trump has quite a story to tell all and should use his State of the Union Address on Tuesday to tell that story and lay out a path forward that includes a vision for all Americans. Trump needs to deliver a positive speech of unity and prosperity for all while remaining strong and resolute to the goals and objectives set forth as a candidate in 2015.

Trump cannot clobber Pelosi, but she must know that he will not allow petty politics to prevent America from moving forward while at the same time making it possible for her to participate in moving America forward in the areas where they do find agreement.

Trump needs to be powerful, positive, inclusive and determined in his speech, but at the same time, he must make clear that he intends to follow through on the promises he's made to make America great again.

Trump has an opportunity on Tuesday to unite America. I hope he uses that opportunity wisely and that he is treated fairly by his opponents in the opposition party and in the media.

Barry Richard is the host of The Barry Richard Show on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from noon to 3 p.m. Contact him at barry@wbsm.com and follow him on Twitter @BarryJRichard58. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author. 

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