A grand entrance into the House chamber followed by a record-breaking speech lasting one hour and forty-seven minutes: Donald Trump used the traditional State of the Union address to Congress on February 24th to paint an idyllic picture of the United States, just over a year after returning to power.
“After just one year, I can say with dignity and pride that we have achieved a transformation like no one has ever seen before, and a turnaround for the ages,” the President declared, surrounded by his family. “Our country is back… Inflation is falling, incomes are rising rapidly, the economy is booming like never before,” he added to cheers from Republican lawmakers chanting “USA, USA, USA.”
Facing challenges from Supreme Court rulings, declining approval ratings, and the threat of losing control of Congress in the upcoming 2026 midterm elections, Trump had a significant task to convince Americans that the “golden age” he promised during his inauguration was within reach.
A Focus on Social Program Fraud
During his speech, Trump highlighted his record on immigration, asserting that the border had “never been more secure.” He announced that Vice President J.D. Vance would lead a “war against fraud” in social programs, blaming migrants and certain states for the issue.
“The importation of these cultures through uncontrolled immigration and open borders is creating these problems here in the United States. And it is the Americans who are paying the price,” he accused, linking it to rising healthcare costs and crime. He directed criticism towards Democrats, who remained seated when he asked for applause for his immigration policies.
Renewed Ties with Venezuela
Trump praised the newly established relationship with Venezuela’s interim president, Delcy Rodriguez, stating that the U.S. Had received over 80 million barrels of oil from the country, calling Venezuela “our new friend and partner.” This comes as Washington seeks to control Venezuela’s vast hydrocarbon reserves following the capture of Nicolas Maduro in January.
The President welcomed former Venezuelan presidential candidate Enrique Marquez, 62, who was among the first political prisoners released as part of recent Venezuelan authorities’ announcements, into the Congressional gallery.
Tensions with Iran and Diplomatic Efforts
Trump also addressed Iran, as allies and rivals alike monitored for any indication of his intentions, particularly given the increased U.S. Military presence in the Middle East. He accused Tehran of developing missiles capable of threatening Europe and U.S. Military bases, and of seeking to build missiles that could soon reach the United States.
“They were warned not to try to rebuild their weapons program, especially nuclear weapons, ever again. Yet they continue and… are currently pursuing their sinister ambitions,” he added, stating his “preference” for a diplomatic resolution. “We are in negotiations with them. They wish to build a deal, but we haven’t heard those key words: ‘We will never have the nuclear weapon,’” the President stated.
Supreme Court Ruling and Election Integrity
Trump expressed regret over the Supreme Court’s decision to invalidate parts of his tariffs, criticizing the judges who ruled against him. He shook their hands upon arrival, a more measured tone than his previous accusations of being “idiots” and “lapdogs” of the radical left.
He urged Congress to approve his election fraud reform, requiring voters to present identification, a contentious issue in the U.S. Where millions lack such documentation. “I ask you to approve the ‘Save America Act’ to prevent illegal aliens – and other people without papers – from voting in our sacred American elections,” he declared, repeating his unsubstantiated claim of widespread election fraud.
Celebrating Olympic Victories and Political Divisions
The President celebrated the U.S. Men’s Olympic hockey team’s gold medal win, stating, “Our country has regained its winning spirit.” The team received a standing ovation from both sides of the aisle, a rare moment of bipartisan unity.
Trump also invited Erika Kirk, the widow of pro-Trump influencer Charlie Kirk, who was killed in September 2025, framing her as a “martyr” in line with the views of the Christian right.
Approximately half of the Democratic members of Congress boycotted the speech. Several Democratic lawmakers invited victims of financier Jeffrey Epstein, who died in prison in 2019 before his trial for sex crimes and with whom Trump had ties, to the Capitol building.
During the address, Democratic Representative Al Green displayed a sign reading “Blacks are not monkeys,” before being removed, referencing a racist video shared by Trump in February depicting Barack and Michelle Obama as monkeys.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main focus of Trump’s State of the Union address?
The address focused on portraying a positive outlook for the U.S. Economy and highlighting accomplishments from his first year back in office, while also criticizing Democrats and addressing foreign policy concerns.
What was Trump’s stance on Iran?
Trump accused Iran of developing threatening missiles and expressed a preference for a diplomatic resolution, but insisted on a commitment from Iran to never pursue nuclear weapons.
How long was the State of the Union address?
The address lasted one hour and forty-seven minutes, making it the longest State of the Union address in history.
