President Donald Trump delivered his first State of the Union address of his second term on February 24, 2026. The speech lasted 1 hour and 48 minutes, making it the longest in U.S. history. Trump painted a bright picture of the nation’s progress amid economic worries and global tensions.
The event took place at 9:12 p.m. EST in the U.S. House of Representatives chamber. House Speaker Mike Johnson invited Trump on January 7. The theme was “America at 250: Strong, Prosperous, and Respected,” tied to the upcoming U.S. Semiquincentennial.
Trump hailed his first year back in office as a “turnaround for the ages.” He touted a booming economy with falling inflation and lower gasoline and mortgage rates. Cheaper drugs and rising incomes. “The booming economy is booming like never before,” Trump said. He called it the “golden age of America,” promising that things would get even better.
The president highlighted secure borders and strict immigration enforcement. He praised efforts to stop fentanyl flows and reduce murders. Trump blasted “unrestricted immigration” and blue states for fraud. He tasked Vice President JD Vance with leading a “war on fraud.”
On housing, Trump pushed Congress to ban institutional investors from buying single-family homes to boost affordability. He discussed deals with drug companies on prices and a new retirement plan. Trump defended his tariffs despite a Supreme Court setback, saying they could one day replace income taxes.
Foreign policy drew sharp focus amid the Iran crisis. Trump warned of Iran’s terrorism, missile threats to Europe and the U.S., and nuclear revival efforts. He built up U.S. forces in the East and hinted at strikes if needed. “I will never permit the world’s leading sponsor of terror to acquire a nuclear weapon,” he stated, preferring diplomacy.
Trump also addressed drug cartels in Mexico and Western Hemisphere security. He urged voter ID laws like the “Save America Act” ahead of the tough 2026 midterms for Republicans. The Justice Department seized 2020 ballots in Georgia as part of election probes.
The speech aimed to rally support amid midterm challenges and public economic doubts. Trump contrasted his vision with the recent past, vowing no return. Guests and protests marked the night, with Democrats healing at times. Analysts noted Trump’s upbeat sales pitch despite voter pessimism on costs. The address set the stage for legislative pushes on the economy, borders, and security. It underscored Trump’s “peace through strength” abroad and domestic wins.
As reactions pour in, the speech reinforces Trump’s agenda for a stronger America. Lawmakers now face pressure on their personnel before the midterms.
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