By Amanda Castro, Ben Kelly, and Jenni Fink
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President Donald Trump delivered the marathon State of the Union he promised, speaking for more than an hour and 40 minutes and setting a modern record for the longest address before a joint session of Congress — surpassing both his own mark from last year and the benchmark held since Bill Clinton’s 2000 speech.
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What to Know
- Trump offered few new policy proposals, instead leaning on upbeat — and at times misleading — portrayals of the economy while mocking Democrats’ focus on affordability.
- He again pushed legislation rooted in his repeated, widely debunked claims of widespread election fraud.
- Trump blasted the Supreme Court’s recent ruling against his tariff policy and vowed to craft an “even stronger” replacement.
- He announced that Vice President JD Vance will lead a new “war on fraud,” asserting without evidence that eliminating such fraud could balance the federal budget.
- The speech swung between triumphant rhetoric and sharp attacks on Democrats, including a heated exchange with Rep. Ilhan Omar, who shouted, “You’ve killed Americans!”
- Several Democrats boycotted the address, and others walked out mid‑speech. Rep. Al Green was escorted out after holding a sign responding to a racist video Trump had shared earlier this month.
- Republicans, increasingly uneasy about the political fallout of Trump’s agenda, have shown only limited signs of breaking with him.
- Democrats tapped Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger to deliver their response, highlighting concerns about the economy and immigration ahead of the midterms.
- Trump’s guests included Erika Kirk, widow of Charlie Kirk, and members of the U.S. men’s Olympic hockey team; Democrats invited victims of Jeffrey Epstein and people affected by Trump’s immigration policies.
- Four Supreme Court justices attended, including three who ruled against Trump’s global tariffs last week.
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Feb 25, 2026 at 12:59 AM EST
Trump’s economic message collides with public frustration over costs
Although Trump declared the economy “roaring like never before,” he devoted little time to the rising cost of living — an issue that has become a political liability for him. Polls show Americans remain deeply concerned about prices, and Democrats have leaned heavily on affordability messaging after strong off‑year election results.
Trump instead blamed his predecessor and congressional Democrats for inflation and rising health‑care costs, accusing them of spreading “dirty, rotten lies.” He floated a new retirement‑savings initiative and announced that AI‑driven tech companies would pay higher electricity rates, but offered few details on how either policy would work.
Feb 25, 2026 at 12:46 AM EST
Trump rebuked Supreme Court justices sitting feet away in SOTU
Trump used his address to criticize the Supreme Court’s recent decision striking down his sweeping import tariffs, calling the ruling “disappointing” and “very unfortunate.” Chief Justice John Roberts and Justices Elena Kagan, Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett sat stone‑faced in the front row as the president spoke.
The tariffs had been a cornerstone of Trump’s economic agenda, which he again described as fueling a “historic turnaround.” But polling shows most Americans remain unconvinced: a February AP‑NORC survey found 59% disapprove of his handling of the economy, and a majority supported the Court’s decision. Trump vowed to impose new trade barriers using “alternative” legal authorities.
Feb 25, 2026 at 12:31 AM EST
Trump leans on ‘winning’ message in record-long state of the Union
President Donald Trump used his marathon State of the Union address to argue that the country is thriving under his leadership, declaring that the United States is “winning so much” thanks to what he described as a jobs surge, a manufacturing revival and a reshaped global order. The speech — his longest yet before a joint session of Congress — was aimed at persuading skeptical voters that the economy is stronger than they think and that Republicans deserve their support in November’s midterms.
Trump filled the night with theatrical moments, introducing military service members, a Venezuelan political prisoner freed after Nicolás Maduro’s ouster, and the Olympic gold‑medal‑winning U.S. men’s hockey team. The players drew a rare bipartisan ovation, and Trump surprised their goaltender, Connor Hellebuyck, by announcing he would receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
The president also defended his tariff agenda just days after the Supreme Court struck down his sweeping levies, calling the ruling “unfortunate” as several justices who joined the majority looked on. He vowed to impose new trade barriers using other legal authorities and predicted tariffs could one day replace income taxes — despite evidence that the costs fall largely on American consumers and businesses.
The speech frequently veered into confrontation. Trump sparred with Democrats over corruption and immigration, at one point calling them “crazy” and accusing them of “destroying our country.” Rep. Al Green was escorted out after displaying a protest sign referencing a racist video Trump had posted earlier this month.
On immigration, Trump urged Congress to “protect American citizens, not illegal aliens,” pushing for tighter voter ID rules, limits on mail‑in ballots and a renewed crackdown on undocumented immigrants. He awarded a Purple Heart to National Guard member Andrew Wolfe, who was wounded while deployed in Washington, D.C.
Despite voter concerns about rising costs, Trump devoted limited time to affordability. Instead, he blamed Democrats and his predecessor for higher prices and health‑care expenses. He also floated a new retirement‑savings initiative and announced that AI‑driven tech companies would pay higher electricity rates in areas hosting their data centers.
Turning to foreign policy, Trump warned Iran that he would never allow it to obtain a nuclear weapon, citing U.S. strikes that targeted Tehran’s nuclear infrastructure last summer. He also highlighted the raid that removed Maduro from power in Venezuela and pointed to a U.S.-brokered ceasefire in the Israel‑Hamas war.
Feb 25, 2026 at 12:17 AM EST
Democrats blast Trump’s address as lawmakers respond after the speech
As President Donald Trump returned to the White House following his marathon State of the Union address, Democrats who remained in the chamber began issuing sharp rebuttals — a wave of statements that signaled just how little goodwill the speech generated across the aisle.
Sen. Jacky Rosen of Nevada was among the first to respond, accusing Trump of painting an inaccurate picture of the country’s economic health. “Donald Trump spent hours lying by saying life has gotten better since he came back into office, but Nevadans know the truth: Prices are still too high, millions have lost access to health care, and his illegal tariffs are hurting small businesses,” she said.
Feb 25, 2026 at 12:03 AM EST
Did Donald Trump snub Amy Coney Barrett at SOTU?
President Donald Trump entered the House chamber for the State of the Union address on Tuesday night and before taking to the mic, he shook hands with all four present justices, reports and video show.
Trump has vocalized recent frustration with the High Court this month after a 6-3 decision shot down his sweeping tariff policy.
CNN anchor Kaitlan Collins posted a video to X on Tuesday night showing the interaction with Justice Amy Coney Barrett with the caption, "President Trump shakes Justice Amy Coney Barrett's hand after saying Friday that her decision on his tariffs was an embarrassment to her family. (And [Neil] Gorsuch's.)"
In the video, Barrett's arm and hand are clearly reaching out to shake Trump's hand. She says a few words to the president and smiled in his direction, the video shows.
Anthony Adragna, congressional reporter for Punchbowl News, also posted to X Tuesday night, noting the president's greetings with the justices, saying, "President Trump shook hands with each of the Supreme Court justices. They all appeared to exchange nods."
Feb 24, 2026 at 11:47 PM EST
NAACP President condemns Trump’s SAVE Act push as voter suppression
NAACP President Derrick Johnson sharply criticized President Donald Trump’s call for Congress to pass the SAVE Act, arguing that the proposal is designed to suppress, not safeguard, the vote. In a statement released during Trump’s State of the Union address, Johnson said the measure is part of a broader effort to weaken Americans’ access to the ballot box.
Johnson accused Trump of attempting to “nationalize elections” in violation of the Constitution and pointed to allies who have urged the deployment of immigration authorities at polling places — a move civil rights groups warn would intimidate lawful voters. He argued that the SAVE Act would block “tens of millions” of eligible citizens from voting and framed Trump’s push as a reaction to political vulnerability.
The NAACP leader cast the proposal as a threat to democratic participation, urging voters to remain engaged despite what he described as efforts to instill fear.
Feb 24, 2026 at 11:33 PM EST
Trump highlights release of Venezuelan political prisoner
Trump introduced a Venezuelan political prisoner newly freed after years in detention and told the story of Alejandra Gonzalez, whom he described as coming from a close‑knit Venezuelan family with deep ties to the country’s opposition movement.
According to Trump, Gonzalez’s uncle, Enrique Márquez, was abducted by security forces after running for office against Nicolás Maduro and was held in a notorious Caracas prison. Trump said Gonzalez had long feared she would never see him again — until recent political shifts in Venezuela led to the closure of the prison and the release of hundreds of detainees under a new amnesty law.
The president then revealed that Márquez had not only been freed but was present in the chamber. He entered to a standing ovation and embraced his niece as lawmakers applauded.
The moment unfolded against a backdrop of major changes in Venezuela, where U.S. pressure and a new political landscape have prompted the release of political prisoners. Earlier in the speech, Trump referred to Venezuela as a “new friend” and “partner” following the U.S. operation that resulted in Maduro’s capture.
Feb 24, 2026 at 11:24 PM EST
Spanberger says Americans still struggling under Trump’s policies in Democratic response
Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger used her Democratic rebuttal to President Donald Trump’s State of the Union to argue that the cost of living remains painfully high for families more than a year into Trump’s second term.
Speaking before a supportive crowd in Williamsburg, she said that every day Americans “are still feeling the squeeze,” despite the president’s claims of broad economic strength.
Feb 24, 2026 at 11:18 PM EST
Spanberger delivers Democratic response, accuses Trump of misleading Americans
Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger delivered the Democratic response to President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address, speaking before an enthusiastic crowd in Williamsburg. She opened with a direct challenge to the president’s economic message, telling viewers that Trump had not been honest about the state of the country.
“We did not hear the truth from our president,” Spanberger said, arguing that Americans are facing rising costs and growing instability despite Trump’s claims of strength and prosperity. Her remarks set the tone for a rebuttal focused on economic reality, democratic norms and the stakes of the coming election.
Feb 24, 2026 at 11:04 PM EST
Trump’s address has concluded
The president spoke for about an hour and 47 minutes and has concluded his speech.
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Feb 24, 2026 at 10:47 PM EST
Trump sets record for longest State of the Union speech in modern history
President Donald Trump crossed the 90‑minute mark in his State of the Union address, surpassing the length of every speech of its kind since at least 1964.
The milestone pushes his remarks past the previous modern record, held by President Bill Clinton’s 2000 address.
Feb 24, 2026 at 10:41 PM EST
IN PICTURES: Trump continues SOTU address
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Feb 24, 2026 at 10:39 PM EST
Trump hails ‘Operation Midnight Hammer’ as he turns to Iran
When President Donald Trump finally shifted to Iran near the end of his State of the Union address, he celebrated what he called “Operation Midnight Hammer,” claiming the U.S. had destroyed the country’s three largest uranium‑enrichment sites — Natanz, Fordow and Isfahan.
He then pivoted to the present day, asserting that Iranian authorities killed 32,000 protesters last month and warning that the regime is “starting all over again.”
Calling Iranian leaders “terrible people,” Trump framed the operation and the alleged crackdown as proof that Tehran remains a persistent threat.
Feb 24, 2026 at 10:37 PM EST
Trump delays Iran discussion until later in speech
Trump did not turn to Iran until roughly 10:30 p.m., well into his State of the Union address — a timing that undercut the urgency he has suggested in recent weeks about the possibility of military action.
By pushing the topic so late, the president offered little in the way of a sustained argument to the public about why a confrontation with Tehran might be necessary.
Feb 24, 2026 at 10:34 PM EST
Trump promises to protect Medicaid despite enacting major cuts last year
President Donald Trump told Americans during his State of the Union address that he would “always protect Medicaid,” even though the sweeping domestic policy package he signed last summer delivered some of the largest reductions to the program in its history.
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act cut more than $900 billion in federal Medicaid funding over a decade, according to the Congressional Budget Office. Those reductions are projected to leave 7.5 million more people uninsured by 2034, largely because of new eligibility hurdles and cost‑sharing requirements.
Among the most consequential changes is a first‑ever federal work requirement: adults ages 19 to 64 deemed able‑bodied must work, volunteer, attend school or participate in job training for at least 80 hours a month. The mandate also applies to parents of children 14 and older. Medicaid expansion enrollees will face more frequent eligibility checks and could be charged up to $35 for certain services.
The law also increases paperwork and verification demands, raising the likelihood that eligible people could lose coverage simply by failing to navigate the new administrative burden. With states receiving less federal support overall, many may scale back benefits or further tighten enrollment.
Feb 24, 2026 at 10:20 PM EST
Trump praises Charlie Kirk in SOTU speech
Trump said that the country is experiencing a “tremendous renewal” of religion and faith, especially among young people. He credited conservative activist Charlie Kirk as a driving force behind that resurgence before asserting that Kirk had been “violently murdered by an assassin” and “martyred for his beliefs.”
Trump invited Kirk’s widow, Erica, to stand as he praised her husband’s legacy and urged Americans to reaffirm that the nation is “one nation under God.” He used the moment to call for rejecting political violence, framing religious revival as part of a broader cultural restoration.
The president then pivoted to public safety, arguing that communities remain threatened by “dangerous repeat offenders” whom he blamed on Democratic policies
Feb 24, 2026 at 10:18 PM EST
Trump calls for ban on schools allowing student social transition without parental consent
Trump called for new restrictions on how schools handle gender‑related accommodations for students.
He called for a nationwide ban on allowing students to socially transition, including changes to names, pronouns, or gender expression, without explicit parental approval.
Feb 24, 2026 at 10:12 PM EST
Ilhan Omar and Trump clash in sharpest exchange of the night
The most intense moment of the State of the Union came when Representative Ilhan Omar shouted at President Donald Trump, accusing him directly: “You’ve killed Americans!”
The president responded, “You should be ashamed of yourself.”
Feb 24, 2026 at 10:09 PM EST
Trump blasts Democrats over homeland security standoff
President Donald Trump sharply criticized Democrats during his State of the Union address, accusing them of holding the Department of Homeland Security “hostage” by refusing to approve funding without new limits on his immigration enforcement agenda.
Democrats have insisted that any temporary funding measure must include guardrails on federal agents’ tactics, arguing that the administration’s approach has become overly aggressive.
Feb 24, 2026 at 10:03 PM EST
Trump highlights stock market gains, though data shows a more nuanced picture
President Donald Trump pointed to record‑setting stock market performance during his State of the Union address, telling lawmakers that the market has logged 53 all‑time highs since his election and boosted retirement accounts across the country.
While stocks have indeed climbed over the past year, the numbers are more modest than Trump suggested. The S&P 500 rose 16.39% in 2025 and recorded 39 record closes, according to CFRA Research. The index notched a few additional highs in early January but has largely moved sideways since, gaining just 0.65% so far this year.
The broader rally reflects a rebound from last spring’s tariff turbulence, along with strong corporate earnings, enthusiasm around artificial intelligence and several Federal Reserve rate cuts. Rising markets typically lift pensions and 401(k)s, though analysts warn that elevated valuations and geopolitical uncertainty could leave investors exposed.
Feb 24, 2026 at 09:55 PM EST
Trump again casts doubt on 2020 loss
Trump briefly veered off script during his State of the Union address, making a quick remark rejecting the legitimacy of his 2020 defeat.
“Should be my third term, strange things happen,” he said.
Feb 24, 2026 at 09:50 PM EST
Trump casts economic and policy contrast with Biden, claims surge in investment and falling prices
President Donald Trump used a lengthy section of his State of the Union address to argue that the United States is entering a new era of economic strength, saying factories, jobs and “trillions and trillions of dollars” in investment will continue flowing into the country because he “puts America first.” He contrasted that with what he described as decades of policies that “drained the wealth” of working Americans.
Trump blamed the Biden administration for inflation, immigration pressures and rising household costs, asserting that those policies “reached a breaking point” before he took office. He cited a series of dramatic figures — including claims about murders committed by migrants and a $34,000 increase in family expenses — as he accused Democrats of now using the word “affordability” to distance themselves from the consequences of their own votes.
The president said prices for staples such as eggs, chicken, butter, fruit, hotel stays, automobiles and rent are now lower than when he took office, and that beef prices are beginning to fall. He framed declining energy costs as the equivalent of “another big tax cut.”
Trump also turned to health care, calling the Affordable Care Act a “rip‑off” that enriched insurance companies. He promoted what he called “the great health care plan,” which he said would end federal payments to insurers and instead give money directly to individuals to purchase their own coverage. He also emphasized price transparency as a core feature of his proposal.
Feb 24, 2026 at 09:48 PM EST
Trump inflates investment claims in state of the Union
Trump claimed during his State of the Union address that his administration secured “more than $18 trillion” in new investment commitments in just 12 months — a figure he contrasted with “less than $1 trillion” under President Biden. That statement does not hold up to scrutiny.
Trump’s own White House press office has placed the total at $9.7 trillion, roughly half of what he asserted. Even that smaller figure includes sweeping, nonbinding pledges and previously announced projects rather than confirmed, enforceable investments.
A significant portion of the touted total comes from foreign governments whose promises far exceed their economic capacity. Qatar and the United Arab Emirates each pledged more than $1 trillion, surpassing their entire annual GDPs. Analysts have warned that such commitments are aspirational at best. A January review by the Peterson Institute for International Economics found many of the pledges “lack clear enforcement mechanisms” and should not be treated as guaranteed investments.
Feb 24, 2026 at 09:44 PM EST
Trump repeats false claim about ‘no tax on Social Security’
Trump again asserted that he has implemented “no tax on Social Security,” a claim he has made repeatedly despite it not being reflected in law.
Trump campaigned in 2024 on eliminating federal income taxes on Social Security benefits, but the major tax package he signed last year did not include such a provision.
Feb 24, 2026 at 09:33 PM EST
Trump praises U.S. hockey team, announces Medal of freedom for goalie Connor Hellebuyck
President Donald Trump used an extended anecdote about the U.S. men’s hockey team during his State of the Union address to announce that goaltender Connor Hellebuyck will receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Trump said he polled the team before making the decision, joking that he wouldn’t proceed if even one player objected. According to Trump, every hand “went up rapidly.”
The president praised Hellebuyck’s performance, highlighting a game in which he faced 46 shots and made a dramatic save off the back of his stick. Trump said the goalie declined to answer whether he practiced that move, calling the moment “lucky” but worthy of national recognition.
Trump then pivoted to upcoming global sporting events, noting that the United States will host the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles and the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which he said he secured during his first term. He framed both events as part of a broader year of national celebration, tying them to the country’s approaching 250th anniversary.
Feb 24, 2026 at 09:30 PM EST
Trump says U.S. women’s hockey team will visit the White House soon
Trump shifted from praising the men’s hockey team, who are present tonight, to noting that the American women’s team would “soon be coming to the White House.”
The aside came as he highlighted recent athletic achievements, using the teams’ successes as part of a broader theme of national pride woven throughout the speech.
Feb 24, 2026 at 09:27 PM EST
Trump calls Venezuela a new ‘partner,’ skips mention of U.S. role in Maduro’s removal
During his State of the Union address, President Donald Trump referred to Venezuela as a newly aligned “partner,” framing the shift as part of a broader realignment in the Western Hemisphere.
What he did not acknowledge was the central factor behind that change: the U.S. military operation that removed Nicolás Maduro from power.
Feb 24, 2026 at 09:25 PM EST
Trump touts sharp economic rebound, blames Biden for ‘worst inflation’ in SOTU remarks
Trump said that the U.S. economy has undergone a dramatic revival in his first year back in office, contrasting what he described as “the worst inflation in the history of our country” under President Biden with what he says are rapid gains across key indicators.
Trump said his administration has driven core inflation to its lowest level in more than five years, citing a 1.7% rate in the final quarter of 2025. He also pointed to falling gas prices — saying they are now below $2.30 a gallon in most states, with some stations dipping under $2 — and highlighted mortgage rates he said are at a four‑year low, reducing annual costs for new homebuyers by nearly $5,000.
The president argued that lower interest rates will ease the housing crunch while protecting the value of existing homes, saying many Americans “feel rich for the first time in their lives.”
Trump also touted stock market performance, noting what he described as 53 record highs since the election, and said retirement accounts and pensions are “way up.” He contrasted foreign investment levels under Biden with what he called an unprecedented surge of commitments during his first year, claiming more than $18 trillion in new investment pledges.
Feb 24, 2026 at 09:20 PM EST
Rep. Al Green removed from chamber after holding protest sign during State of the Union
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Rep. Al Green, D‑Texas, was escorted out of the House chamber during President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address after standing and holding a sign that read “Black People Aren’t Apes.” The sign was positioned directly in the president’s line of sight, prompting immediate reaction on the floor.
Sen. Markwayne Mullin, R‑Okla., walked over and stood in front of Green in an apparent attempt to block Trump’s view. Moments later, Green was removed for violating decorum rules that prohibit signage during the address, while Republican members jeered as he exited.
Green’s ejection comes as the White House has faced criticism over a racist video depicting the Obamas as apes that was posted to the president’s social media account. The administration has said an unnamed staffer was responsible, but that individual has not been dismissed — a contrast critics noted, given that Green was removed from the chamber within minutes.
Feb 24, 2026 at 09:17 PM EST
Trump claims ‘turnaround for the ages’ in State of the Union, says border is now secure
Trump said the country has undergone a dramatic reversal in his first year back in office, contrasting what he described as a nation “in crisis” with a restored, resurgent America.
Trump said he inherited “a stagnant economy, inflation at record levels, a wide open border, horrendous recruitment for military and police, rampant crime at home, and wars and chaos all over the world.” He framed the past year as a period of rapid recovery, telling lawmakers that the United States has achieved “a transformation like no one has ever seen before.”
Feb 24, 2026 at 09:16 PM EST
Trump opens State of the Union declaring ‘Our nation is back’
President Donald Trump opened his State of the Union address with a sweeping declaration of national revival, telling lawmakers and viewers that the United States is “bigger, better, richer, and stronger than ever before.” Speaking from the House chamber, Trump framed the moment as a turning point for the country as it approaches the 250th anniversary of American independence.
Addressing Speaker Mike Johnson, Vice President JD Vance, the first and second ladies, and members of Congress, Trump said the upcoming July 4 milestone marks “two and a half centuries of liberty and triumph” in what he called “the most incredible and exceptional nation ever to exist.” He described the current era as “the golden age of America,” promising continued progress and prosperity.
Feb 24, 2026 at 09:11 PM EST
People’s State of the Union: pro-Trump protester interrupts Democrat Chris Murphy
A pro‑Trump demonstrator briefly disrupted a Democratic boycott event ahead of President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address, shouting support for the president as he rushed the stage. The interruption came as Sen. Chris Murphy was delivering remarks, prompting the man to yell, “Go Trump, go Trump!” before being removed.
Feb 24, 2026 at 09:09 PM EST
Trump has walked into the chamber
President Trump has walked into the chamber and is greeting members of the audience.
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Feb 24, 2026 at 09:07 PM EST
Pelosi wears ‘Stand With Survivors’ pins at State of the Union
Democratic lawmakers arrived at President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address wearing pins that read “Stand with Survivors, Release the Files,” a coordinated gesture aimed at drawing attention to the push for full transparency in the Jeffrey Epstein case.
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi was among those wearing the pins, according to a person familiar with the effort. The move comes as many Democrats have invited survivors of Epstein’s abuse as their guests for the address, using the high‑profile event to amplify calls for the release of remaining government records tied to the case.
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Feb 24, 2026 at 09:05 PM EST
Lindsey Graham brings Paramount CEO David Ellison as State of the Union guest
Sen. Lindsey Graham surprised many in political and media circles by choosing Paramount CEO David Ellison as his guest for President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address. The South Carolina Republican posted a photo with Ellison ahead of the speech, marking an unusual break from the tradition of inviting local constituents or community advocates.
Ellison’s appearance comes on the same day Paramount escalated its hostile takeover bid for Warner Bros. Discovery, raising its offer to $31 per share. Warner Bros. Discovery — CNN’s parent company — is still pursuing a merger with Netflix while weighing Paramount’s revised proposal.
The Paramount chief has been working to build support in Washington, arguing that his company’s bid is more likely to clear regulatory hurdles than a Netflix deal. Netflix has pushed back on that claim. Ellison also met with President Trump at the White House earlier this month as part of his outreach efforts.
Feb 24, 2026 at 09:02 PM EST
President Trump is set to take the podium as the 2026 State of the Union begins
Trump is now set to deliver his 2026 State of the Union address — a speech expected to run unusually long and focus heavily on the economy, affordability and national security.
Feb 24, 2026 at 08:56 PM EST
Carlo Versano on What to Look Out For: AI
I'll be curious if the president dedicates any time in this stemwinder to AI. This is an area where the admin is walking blind to the concerns of regular people, who are not even close to sold on how this technology is going to help them rather than render them unemployable or otherwise disrupt their lives. Can the POTUS make the case that AI is going to benefit society in any tangible way? Or that the benefits won't just be concentrated at the very top of the food chain? Politicians who ignore the growing AI-skeptic constituency are doing so at their own peril.
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Feb 24, 2026 at 08:45 PM EST
Health care costs surge ahead of State of the Union as premiums and out-of-pocket bills rise
Health care has emerged as Americans’ top financial worry heading into President Trump’s 2026 State of the Union address, with premiums and out‑of‑pocket costs rising faster than wages and inflation.
Millions of people who rely on Affordable Care Act marketplaces saw steep premium increases after Congress allowed enhanced subsidies to expire at the end of last year. Some consumers told CBS News they planned to forgo coverage entirely because they could no longer afford it.
Workers with employer-sponsored insurance aren’t faring much better. Premiums for 2026 are expected to rise 6% to 7% — more than double the current inflation rate. Since 2008, private insurance costs have nearly doubled, outpacing the growth of Medicare and Medicaid spending.
The Trump administration has promoted its new TrumpRx website, which lists lower direct‑to‑consumer drug prices. But health policy experts note that the tool primarily helps people who pay cash for prescriptions and does not reduce costs for insured patients or count toward deductibles.
Meanwhile, the GOP’s “big, beautiful bill” tax package reduced Medicaid and other social programs to help offset tax cuts, contributing to higher household expenses. Combined with the lapse in ACA subsidies and cuts to energy assistance programs, many families have seen their budgets stretched to the limit.
As Trump prepares to highlight economic strength, rising medical bills remain a central point of anxiety for voters — and a major test for the administration’s affordability agenda.
Feb 24, 2026 at 08:31 PM EST
Ahead of the State of the Union: Why food and housing costs remain high despite a cooling inflation rate
Even as inflation slows, Americans continue to feel squeezed by the cost of food and housing — two categories that have become defining political and economic issues heading into the 2026 State of the Union.
Food prices, which surged during the pandemic, are still rising. Ground beef is up 17.2% over the past year, while coffee has climbed 18.3%. Economists note that consumers respond more to the prices they see on shelves than to the pace of inflation, meaning even slower increases feel painful after years of cumulative hikes.
The Trump administration has attempted to ease food costs by exempting beef, coffee and bananas from tariffs and by pledging to expand beef imports from Argentina. But because Argentina supplies less than 1% of U.S. beef, experts say the move is unlikely to significantly affect prices.
Housing affordability has also reached crisis levels. More than 80% of Americans say buying a home is harder today than it was for previous generations, and Federal Reserve data shows that buyers must earn 43% more than the typical worker to afford a median-priced home. Trump has proposed banning institutional investors from buying single-family homes and directing $200 billion in federal purchases of mortgage securities to lower borrowing costs.
Economists say those steps may help at the margins but won’t solve the core issue: a shortage of up to 4 million homes. Construction never fully recovered after the 2008 housing crash, leaving demand far ahead of supply.
Feb 24, 2026 at 08:17 PM EST
Trump to tout economic strength at State of the Union as Americans face high costs
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President Donald Trump is expected to put the economy front and center during his 2026 State of the Union address, even as many Americans say they are struggling with the rising cost of everyday essentials. The speech, airing at 9 p.m. EDT, will outline new efforts to “make the American dream more attainable,” according to White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt.
On paper, the U.S. economy appears solid. Unemployment is holding at 4.3%, inflation has eased from its pandemic-era peak and GDP continues to expand despite tariff pressures that once raised recession fears. Consumer confidence has also improved following a strong burst of hiring in January.
But the national picture doesn’t match what many households feel. Food prices remain elevated, housing affordability has deteriorated and health insurance premiums have surged. Pew Research Center polling shows Americans’ top economic concerns are the cost of food, housing and health care — a trio of expenses that continue to strain budgets.
Trump has proposed several affordability measures, including a 10% cap on credit card interest rates, but analysts say many of the administration’s initiatives have yet to deliver meaningful relief. The president faces the challenge of promoting economic resilience while acknowledging the financial pressure millions still experience.
Feb 24, 2026 at 08:03 PM EST
Aside from SOTU: House Democrats probe whether DOJ withheld Epstein files involving allegations against Trump
House Democrats on the Oversight and Government Reform Committee have launched an inquiry into whether the Justice Department improperly withheld materials related to the Jeffrey Epstein case — including documents containing sexual‑assault allegations against President Donald Trump, Politico reported. The investigation follows concerns raised by Rep. Robert Garcia of California, the committee’s ranking member, who said such omissions would violate both a 2025 transparency law and subpoenas previously issued by the panel.
Garcia said Democrats have been reviewing how the FBI handled a 2019 allegation from a woman who accused Trump of sexually assaulting her when she was a minor. He said the DOJ “appears to have illegally withheld” FBI interview records with the accuser, a claim echoed in an NPR investigation that found more than 50 pages of interviews and notes were not included in the public release of Epstein‑related files.
The missing documents were identified by comparing the public release with an evidence manifest from the legal team of Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s longtime associate, now serving a 20‑year sentence. One of the withheld files reportedly includes an allegation from a then‑teenage girl who said Trump assaulted her in the 1980s — a claim that appears in a slide deck listing prominent men once connected to Epstein.
The Justice Department and the White House have not commented on whether any materials were withheld. Trump has denied wrongdoing, and no evidence has emerged showing he participated in Epstein’s trafficking operation. Many of the released documents lack context or substantiation.
Garcia said he reviewed unredacted files on a DOJ computer this week, calling any effort to conceal evidence “the most serious possible crime in this White House cover‑up.” Democrats, who lack subpoena power in the minority, argue the administration is shielding information that could be damaging to the president — an accusation DOJ rejects.
Separately, Reps. Dan Goldman and Ted Lieu have asked Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche to appoint a special counsel to investigate whether Attorney General Pam Bondi misled Congress when she testified that no Epstein documents contained allegations of criminal conduct by Trump. Republicans on the Oversight Committee dismissed the Democrats’ efforts as political theater, accusing them of selectively presenting documents and ignoring controversies involving their own members.
Feb 24, 2026 at 07:50 PM EST
ATF deploys bomb technicians and K-9 teams to bolster security for State of the Union
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives said Tuesday that four Special Agent Bomb Technicians and four explosives‑detection K‑9 teams are stationed at the U.S. Capitol to support security operations during President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address.
According to the agency, the teams are working alongside the U.S. Capitol Police as part of the extensive, multi‑layered security posture that accompanies the annual address. Their role includes screening for explosive threats and providing rapid-response capabilities throughout the Capitol complex.
Feb 24, 2026 at 07:48 PM EST
Speaker Johnson to display Washington’s historic gavel at State of the Union
House Speaker Mike Johnson will become the first speaker to place President George Washington’s gavel on the rostrum during a State of the Union address, the U.S. Capitol Historical Society announced Tuesday.
The gavel dates back to 1793, when it was used during the ceremony marking the laying of the U.S. Capitol’s cornerstone. Since then, it has been safeguarded by Potomac Lodge No. 5, the oldest Masonic lodge in Washington, D.C.
According to the Historical Society, the organization worked with the lodge and the Speaker’s Office to make the display possible, noting that this year’s address coincides with the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding. The gavel’s appearance is intended to highlight the Capitol’s origins and Washington’s role in shaping the early republic.
Feb 24, 2026 at 07:34 PM EST
How long have Trump’s past SOTU speeches been?
President Donald Trump is preparing to deliver what he says will be a “long speech” at Tuesday night’s State of the Union, noting he has “so much to talk about.” If the trend holds, it could rival his longest address to Congress to date — last year’s 1 hour and 40‑minute speech.
Trump’s State of the Union remarks have steadily grown over time. Here’s how his previous addresses compare:
- 2017: 1 hour
- 2018: 1 hour, 20 minutes
- 2019: 1 hour, 22 minutes
- 2020: 1 hour, 18 minutes
- 2025: 1 hour, 40 minutes (longest so far)
The president’s comment suggests he may once again push past the typical runtime as he outlines his agenda before a closely divided Congress.
Feb 24, 2026 at 07:32 PM EST
What time does the State of the Union start?
Trump’s State of the Union address is set to begin at 9 p.m. EST on Tuesday, marking his latest appearance before a joint session of Congress. As tradition dictates, the speech will take place in the House chamber of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., where presidents have delivered the annual address for generations.
Seated directly behind Trump will be two of the most prominent figures in the line of succession: Vice President JD Vance, who presides over the Senate, and House Speaker Mike Johnson, the chamber’s top Republican. Their presence forms the familiar backdrop for the nationally televised address, signaling the formal unity of the legislative and executive branches for the night
Feb 24, 2026 at 07:20 PM EST
The old friend looming over Trump’s State of the Union
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As President Donald Trump prepares to deliver his State of the Union address, the evening is expected to be a show of strength for him and the Republican Party. Traditionally, the speech offers a president the chance to unify lawmakers and set out priorities. But this year, the backdrop is far more complicated.
Trump faces mounting unease within his own party. Much of that anxiety stems from the continuing controversy surrounding the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files.
The handling of those documents—including questions about transparency, timing and who knew what—has kept the issue in the headlines and fueled internal GOP debate. As a result, what might have been a moment of party consolidation now carries an undercurrent of uncertainty.
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Feb 24, 2026 at 07:17 PM EST
CBS poll shows Republicans most likely to watch State of the Union, majority unmoved
A new CBS News poll finds that Republicans make up the largest share of Americans planning to watch President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address, with 52% of expected viewers identifying as Republicans. Independents account for 27%, while just 18% of likely viewers identify as Democrats.
The survey also suggests that most Americans tuning in have already made up their minds about the president. Seventy‑three percent of respondents said nothing in the speech is likely to change their opinion of Trump, while 27% said they are open to shifting their view based on what they hear.
Feb 24, 2026 at 07:07 PM EST
DHS criticizes Democrats for bringing undocumented immigrants to State of the Union
The Department of Homeland Security publicly rebuked several Democratic lawmakers on Tuesday after they announced plans to bring undocumented immigrants as guests to President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address. In a series of posts on X, DHS argued that the invitations prioritize “illegal aliens above the safety of American citizens,” pointing to recent arrests carried out by immigration officers.
The department said its agents apprehended individuals convicted of crimes including rape, sexual assault and assault in multiple states just one day earlier. DHS listed several of those arrests, highlighting cases involving people from El Salvador, Mexico, Guyana and Cuba who were convicted of offenses ranging from naturalization fraud to violent crimes against minors.
The posts echoed the administration’s broader message heading into the address: that immigration enforcement remains a central pillar of its public‑safety agenda. DHS reiterated that Trump and Secretary Kristi Noem intend to continue aggressive enforcement, warning that those who enter the country unlawfully and commit crimes “will be arrested” and “never return.”
Feb 24, 2026 at 07:06 PM EST
Khanna and Massie to sit together at State of the Union after bipartisan Epstein files push
Reps. Ro Khanna of California and Thomas Massie of Kentucky plan to sit side by side during President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address, Khanna’s office confirmed to NBC News. The bipartisan pairing is notable in a chamber where Democrats and Republicans traditionally separate themselves along party lines, even though House members are free to choose any seat.
Khanna and Massie co‑authored the legislation that compelled the Justice Department to release its trove of Jeffrey Epstein files, a rare cross‑party effort that has drawn national attention.
Feb 24, 2026 at 06:52 PM EST
Ahead of the SOTU, progressive group says Trump’s first year delivered windfall for donor class
Our Revolution is releasing new research ahead of President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address, arguing that the president’s first year in office produced extraordinary financial gains for major donor‑aligned industries while economic conditions worsened for working families. The findings are part of the group’s “Defund the Oligarchs” campaign and accompany a new House resolution backed by Reps. Rashida Tlaib, Pramila Jayapal, Barbara Lee and Delia Ramirez.
The organization says its return‑on‑investment analysis shows more than $172 billion in benefits flowing to sectors with deep political ties to Trump — including technology, fossil fuels and private detention contractors — through deregulation, subsidies, tax advantages and federal contracts. The report highlights what it describes as staggering returns: a more than 686,000% gain for major AI executives, a 33,000% return for oil and gas interests, and an 11,000% return for companies involved in immigration detention and surveillance. The group also notes that Trump’s personal net worth has surged since his nomination.
At the same time, the research points to weakening economic indicators for workers: slowing job growth, rising layoffs, higher household costs and declining real wage gains. The group cites 1.17 million layoffs in 2025, a 35% drop in hiring, and a loss of 72,000 manufacturing jobs, alongside rising unemployment and elevated energy prices.
Executive Director Joseph Geevarghese said the goal is to reframe the national conversation ahead of the State of the Union by contrasting Trump’s economic message with what the group calls “political profiteering.” The campaign argues that donor‑driven policymaking has diverted public resources away from housing, health care and education.
The new House resolution tied to the effort seeks to eliminate tax breaks, subsidies and federal contracts for billionaire‑backed corporations and redirect those funds toward public investment. Organizers are also partnering with the People’s State of the Union event to amplify their message nationally.
Geevarghese said the data make clear that “the State of the Union is strong if you are an oligarch,” but not for families struggling with rising costs.
Feb 24, 2026 at 06:39 PM EST
White House reveals first lady’s guests for State of the Union
The White House has announced the guests who will sit alongside First Lady Melania Trump in the House gallery during President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address, highlighting two individuals connected to her policy priorities.
One of the guests is 10‑year‑old Everest Nevraumont, a student at the Alpha School in Austin, Texas, where artificial intelligence is integrated into daily learning. Nevraumont has become an outspoken advocate for AI‑driven education and previously delivered a TEDx talk explaining how the technology supports her studies. The first lady has promoted expanded access to AI tools in classrooms and recently launched the Presidential AI Challenge, a national competition encouraging students to develop innovative uses for the technology.
Also attending is Sierra Burns, a 24‑year‑old foster care advocate from Greenville, South Carolina. Burns grew up in the foster system and benefited from the Foster Youth to Independence Program, an initiative championed by the first lady. Last year, Melania Trump secured $30 million in federal funding to help young adults transition out of foster care and into stable housing and employment.
Feb 24, 2026 at 06:25 PM EST
Trump, Senate Democrats roll out dueling plans to curb Wall Street home buying
President Donald Trump and Senate Democrats are advancing competing proposals to limit the role of large investors in the single‑family housing market, a sign of how central affordability has become heading into the State of the Union.
Trump is expected to promote his plan during Tuesday night’s address. His proposal, unveiled last month, would bar most major investment firms from buying additional single‑family homes to rent. The plan, however, carves out a significant exception for build‑to‑rent developments — projects in which companies construct entire neighborhoods of rental houses. Some of the same firms Trump has criticized are heavily invested in those communities.
Senate Democrats introduced their own legislation Tuesday, taking a tax‑focused approach rather than an outright purchasing ban. Their bill would eliminate key deductions — including depreciation and mortgage‑interest write‑offs — for large landlords that own portfolios of single‑family rentals. It would also block Wall Street firms from buying foreclosed homes sold by federal housing agencies. Savings from the tax changes would be redirected to expand affordable housing and help first‑time buyers.
Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, the bill’s lead sponsor, said the Democratic plan is designed to push big investors to sell homes back into the market and reduce pressure on renters. Both proposals include exemptions for small landlords, and the Democratic bill would preserve tax benefits for investors who rehabilitate distressed properties.
Feb 24, 2026 at 06:11 PM EST
U.S. men’s hockey team expected at Trump’s State of the Union
The U.S. men’s Olympic hockey team is expected to attend President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address on Tuesday night, House Speaker Mike Johnson said, confirming a last‑minute push to secure space for the newly crowned gold medalists.
Johnson told CBS News that the team “will be there with their gold medals,” acknowledging that arranging their appearance required quick logistical work. The players visited the White House earlier in the day, where Trump greeted them in the Oval Office and praised their championship win over Canada in Milan. Administration officials shared photos and videos of the team touring the West Wing and walking through the colonnade.
Forward Matthew Tkachuk also posted an image of several teammates standing outside a government aircraft, signaling their trip to Washington.
Trump invited both the men’s and women’s teams after their back‑to‑back Olympic victories. While the men accepted, the women’s team declined, citing academic and professional commitments following their return from the Games. A USA Hockey spokesperson said the athletes appreciated the invitation but could not attend.
The president had spoken with the men’s team shortly after their gold‑medal win, telling them he would arrange transportation to bring them to the Capitol for the address. Johnson said the House gallery is already packed but vowed to “squeeze in the hockey players,” calling their presence a unifying moment.
...
Feb 24, 2026 at 05:57 PM EST
Lawmakers split on attendance, accountability ahead of Trump’s address
Hours before President Donald Trump delivers the State of the Union, members of Congress offered sharply different views on how they plan to approach the night — from calls for investigations to boycotts to symbolic guest invitations — during a series of interviews on CNN News Central.
Rep. Mike Lawler, R‑N.Y., said Congress must conduct a “full and thorough investigation” into allegations surrounding Rep. Tony Gonzales, citing newly released text messages between the Texas Republican and a staff member. Lawler said Gonzales should immediately answer questions about the situation, which he noted has been linked to a staffer’s death.
Democrats highlighted a different set of concerns. Rep. Eric Swalwell, D‑Calif., said he will attend the address “in solidarity” with Teresa Helm, a survivor of Jeffrey Epstein’s abuse. Swalwell said Helm has spent more than two decades seeking accountability and will be in the same room as top federal officials. He added that he sees little chance Trump will address the ongoing Epstein investigation, saying the likelihood is “the square root of zero.”
Rep. Ami Bera, D‑Calif., explained why he will not attend the speech, saying Trump has shown “utter disrespect for Congress as a separate branch of government.” Bera said he hopes the president delivers a unifying message but expects him instead to target Democrats and possibly criticize the Supreme Court following its recent ruling against his tariff policy.
Feb 24, 2026 at 05:51 PM EST
Brother of 11-year-old cancer patient separated by deportation attends State of the Union
The oldest brother of an 11‑year‑old U.S. citizen whose brain‑tumor treatment was disrupted after her parents were deported to Mexico is attending tonight’s State of the Union as the guest of Rep. Adriano Espaillat, D‑N.Y. Espaillat, who chairs the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, said the teen’s presence is meant to highlight the human toll of the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown.
The 18‑year‑old, a U.S. citizen from Texas, has been living alone since Feb. 4, 2025, when immigration authorities removed his five siblings — four of them U.S. citizens — and sent them to Mexico alongside their parents, who lacked legal status. His 11‑year‑old sister’s cancer treatment was halted as a result. The teen is not being named due to safety concerns, as his family was relocated to an area of Mexico known for kidnappings targeting U.S. citizens.
Espaillat said the teen joins a broader group of guests invited by Hispanic Caucus members to highlight how immigration enforcement decisions are affecting American families.
Feb 24, 2026 at 05:43 PM EST
Carlo Versano on What to Look Out For: Tariffs
The portion of the speech dedicated to tariffs could be where things go sideways. His speechwriters surely understand this is one of his worst issues, according to polling, even as it's also evidently one of the few things Trump actually, truly believes in. To make matters worse, he just got publicly embarrassed on his signature issue by the SCOTUS last week. As is customary, those justices will be in the chamber tonight right smack in front of the dais. The biggest open question of the evening is probably whether Trump can manage to get through the speech without succumbing to the urge to take a detour into nasty, personal swipes at the justices who ruled against him.
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Feb 24, 2026 at 05:37 PM EST
Lawmakers bring guests impacted by immigration crackdown to State of the Union
Lawmakers from both parties are using their guest invitations for tonight’s State of the Union address to highlight sharply different views of President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement strategy. At least a dozen individuals affected by the administration’s policies will be in the gallery, underscoring the deep partisan divide over deportations, detention practices and the future of the Department of Homeland Security, whose funding lapsed earlier this month.
Republicans are spotlighting families who say they lost loved ones to crimes committed by undocumented immigrants. Rep. Randy Feenstra of Iowa is bringing Scott and Scotty Root, relatives of Sarah Root, who was killed in 2016 by a driver authorities say was in the country unlawfully. Several “angel families” who met with Trump at the White House on Monday have also been invited.
Democrats, meanwhile, are elevating people they say were harmed by aggressive enforcement tactics. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer is hosting Raiza Contreras, whose son — a New York City student — was detained by immigration agents last year despite, Schumer says, having entered the country legally. Rep. Ilhan Omar of Minnesota is bringing four guests who have been swept up in enforcement actions, including Aliya Rahman, whose widely circulated video showed officers pulling her from her car. Rep. Adelita Grijalva of Arizona is giving her ticket to Omar so she can bring an additional guest, Mubashir Hussen, a U.S. citizen who says he was unlawfully detained; the ACLU is suing on his behalf.
Rep. Jesús García of Illinois has invited Marimar Martinez, a Chicago woman shot five times by a Border Patrol agent in a case that federal prosecutors later dropped after questions about evidence handling.
The contrasting guest lists reflect the broader stalemate in Congress, where Democrats are pushing for new limits on immigration enforcement as a condition for restoring DHS funding, and Republicans argue the administration’s crackdown is essential for public safety.
Feb 24, 2026 at 05:29 PM EST
Past Trump State of the Union addresses marked by protests, viral moments
Trump’s previous State of the Union speeches have often doubled as political theater, producing headline‑grabbing clashes and symbolic gestures that underscored the country’s deep partisan divide.
His 2020 address, delivered just weeks before the COVID‑19 pandemic shut down much of the country, closely resembled a campaign rally. The night ended with one of the most memorable moments of Trump’s presidency: then‑House Speaker Nancy Pelosi tearing up her copy of the speech as he finished, a gesture that quickly spread across social media. That same evening, Trump awarded conservative radio host Rush Limbaugh the Presidential Medal of Freedom, drawing applause from Republicans and criticism from Democrats. Limbaugh died the following year.
A year earlier, Trump used his 2019 address to call for an end to “politics of revenge” and urged lawmakers to seek common ground. Pelosi responded with a pointed, slow clap that became an instant meme. The speech also highlighted the surge of Democratic women elected in the 2018 midterms; many wore white to honor the suffrage movement and stood to applaud Trump’s comments about women benefiting from a strong economy.
Feb 24, 2026 at 05:16 PM EST
Advocacy group slams Trump’s expected AI ‘rate payer protection’ pledges ahead of State of the Union
President Donald Trump is expected to unveil a set of “ratepayer protection pledges” during the State of the Union, asking major artificial intelligence companies to cover a portion of the soaring energy costs tied to data‑center expansion. The move comes as public skepticism toward AI continues to grow and local opposition has stalled data‑center projects in several states.
Demand Progress — which has been leading a coalition urging Congress to preserve state authority over AI regulation — sharply criticized the forthcoming announcement, arguing that the pledges amount to little more than a public‑relations maneuver.
In a statement, Emily Peterson‑Cassin, the group’s policy director, said the commitments from tech giants “amount to worthless pinky swears” from corporations seeking to expand AI infrastructure despite widespread concerns about job displacement, privacy risks and community impacts. She added that the pledges fail to address deeper harms associated with AI systems, including recent outages, the creation of sexualized images of minors and cases in which vulnerable teens were harmed after interacting with AI tools.
Peterson‑Cassin said the companies are attempting “desperate damage control” as voters increasingly view them as responsible for rising energy costs and unchecked AI development. The criticism comes as Congress weighs proposals that could limit states’ ability to pass or enforce their own AI laws — a move Demand Progress and other advocacy groups strongly oppose.
Feb 24, 2026 at 05:15 PM EST
Minnesota Democrats use state of the Union guests to protest immigration crackdown
Several Democratic members of Minnesota’s congressional delegation are using their invitations to President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address to spotlight the human toll of the administration’s immigration enforcement surge.
Rep. Ilhan Omar has invited four Minnesotans affected by Operation Metro Surge, the recent federal crackdown in the Twin Cities. Her guests include Aliya Rahman, a disabled U.S. citizen who was recorded being pulled from her vehicle by immigration officers while heading to a medical appointment, and Mary Granlund, chair of the Columbia Heights School Board, who advocated for a 5‑year‑old Ecuadorian student detained with his father and later sent to a Texas facility.
Republicans from the state are taking a different approach. Rep. Pete Stauber, who represents northeastern Minnesota, has invited conservative YouTubers Nick Shirley and David Hoch. Their reporting on alleged fraud in Minnesota’s child‑care assistance program drew Trump’s attention and helped shape the administration’s decision to launch the enforcement surge.
Feb 24, 2026 at 05:01 PM EST
House Democrats bring Epstein survivors to State of the Union
More than half a dozen House Democrats have invited survivors of Jeffrey Epstein to attend President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address, using the high‑visibility event to draw attention to ongoing efforts to uncover the full scope of Epstein’s network and the failures that allowed him to operate for years.
Among the lawmakers participating is Rep. Ro Khanna of California, a co‑author of the Epstein Transparency Act — the law that triggered the release of millions of pages of records tied to the disgraced financier. Khanna said he will be joined by Haley Robson, who has said Epstein began trafficking her when she was 16.
Democrats say the presence of survivors is intended to underscore the need for continued accountability and transparency as new documents emerge. Their guests will sit in the House gallery as Trump delivers his address to a joint session of Congress.
Feb 24, 2026 at 04:47 PM EST
Democrats urge discipline as some boycott Trump’s State of the Union
Democratic leaders are encouraging their members to keep order during President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address, urging them to channel their objections through strategic choices such as inviting guests who underscore concerns about immigration enforcement and the handling of the Epstein files. The guidance comes as the party seeks to avoid the kind of outbursts that have occasionally defined past addresses.
A number of Democrats will skip the speech altogether, instead appearing at the “People’s State of the Union,” a counter‑event on the National Mall organized by progressive groups. Their absence highlights the party’s internal debate over how forcefully to confront the president during one of the year’s most visible political moments.
Republicans are also using the night to spotlight immigration. Several GOP members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus plan to bring guests connected to the issue. Rep. María Salazar of Florida, who has warned her party about slipping support among Latino voters, held a morning news conference with faith leaders criticizing the administration’s enforcement tactics. She is bringing Cuban activist Rosa María Payá as her guest.
The address comes as Congress remains deadlocked over funding for the Department of Homeland Security, which has been shuttered since lawmakers failed to reach agreement on changes to Immigration and Customs Enforcement. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump will use his remarks to pressure Democrats to approve a plan to reopen the department.
Feb 24, 2026 at 04:45 PM EST
White House shares photo of US men’s hockey team with Trump in the Oval Office
The White House released a photo on X showing the U.S. men’s hockey team meeting with President Donald Trump in the Oval Office just hours before they are set to attend tonight’s State of the Union address. The visit comes on the heels of the team’s gold‑medal win and follows Trump’s invitation for the players to join him at the Capitol for the nationally televised speech.
Feb 24, 2026 at 04:33 PM EST
Trump expected to address Ukraine war on invasion anniversary
President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address coincides with the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full‑scale invasion of Ukraine, a milestone that has renewed scrutiny of the administration’s approach to the conflict. Ukrainian officials say they anticipate the war will surface in Trump’s remarks, given his push to broker a settlement and his advisers’ involvement in ongoing negotiations.
Ukraine’s ambassador to the United States, Olga Stefanishyna, told reporters she does not expect a dramatic shift in Trump’s tone but hopes the president acknowledges the stakes for Ukrainians still under attack. She noted that Kyiv remains concerned about Russia’s sweeping territorial demands, including its insistence that Ukrainian forces withdraw from four regions Moscow claims to have annexed but does not fully control.
Trump has argued that Ukraine will ultimately be forced to cede territory and has urged President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to consider a deal to prevent further casualties. Stefanishyna said Ukrainians are realistic about the challenges ahead but continue to look to Washington for leadership as the war grinds on.
Feb 24, 2026 at 04:19 PM EST
Parents of slain National Guard member invited to Trump’s State of the Union
President Donald Trump has invited the parents of Sarah Beckstrom, a 20‑year‑old National Guard member who was fatally shot in Washington, D.C., last year, to attend Tuesday night’s State of the Union address, a White House official confirmed.
Beckstrom’s killing drew national attention and renewed scrutiny of violent crime in the capital. Her parents’ presence at the address is expected to underscore the administration’s focus on public safety and support for military families.
The official, who discussed the invitation ahead of the speech, said the Beckstroms will join other guests selected to highlight themes Trump plans to emphasize in his remarks.
Feb 24, 2026 at 04:17 PM EST
Reporters say Trump’s State of the Union could run more than two hours
President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address may be significantly longer than usual, according to several Republican sources who told PBS correspondent Lisa Desjardins they were warned to expect a speech exceeding two hours.
A source suggested to her that the upper estimate was between 2.5 and 3 hours, though acknowledged that figure might reflect some strategic exaggeration.
If accurate, the address would be among the longest in modern history and far beyond Trump’s typical runtime. His longest speech to Congress so far lasted 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Feb 24, 2026 at 04:05 PM EST
Spanberger to deliver Democratic response to SOTU, highlighting affordability and stability
Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger will deliver the Democratic response to President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address, a high‑profile assignment that underscores her party’s interest in elevating a pragmatic, election‑tested voice. Spanberger, who entered Congress in 2019 and built her reputation as a centrist focused on winning competitive districts, is only weeks into her governorship.
Her remarks are expected to revisit the themes that powered her 2025 campaign: the rising cost of living, the turbulence she argues Trump has fueled at home and abroad, and the civic pushback she says she has witnessed from voters across the political spectrum. Aides say she intends to frame those issues as evidence that Americans are demanding steadier leadership.
Since taking office last month, Spanberger — a former CIA case officer — has moved quickly on a slate of economic measures under her “affordable Virginia” banner. She has also signed legislation that would allow voters to decide in April whether to adopt a new congressional map, a change that could shift several Republican‑held seats toward Democrats.
Spanberger will speak from Colonial Williamsburg, a symbolic choice meant to evoke Virginia’s role in the nation’s founding. Her team noted that the site hosted pivotal 1776 votes that helped shape the Declaration of Independence and later influenced the Bill of Rights.
Feb 24, 2026 at 03:52 PM EST
Trump to announce higher power rates for AI firms in State of the Union: Report
President Donald Trump plans to use his State of the Union address to unveil an agreement requiring artificial‑intelligence companies to pay elevated electricity rates in communities where their data centers operate, according to a White House official who spoke on the condition of anonymity to preview the speech, per PBS.
The move is one of several economic measures Trump is expected to highlight. Data centers consume massive amounts of power, and local officials have warned that the surge in industrial demand could push household utility bills higher at a time when affordability remains a top concern for voters.
The Wall Street Journal first reported that the president would address the new rate structure in his remarks. The announcement comes as Trump seeks to reassure the public that his administration can manage the rapid expansion of AI infrastructure without burdening families already strained by rising costs.
Feb 24, 2026 at 03:39 PM EST
Border bishops urge major immigration changes ahead of Trump’s address
A coalition of Roman Catholic leaders from U.S. border regions issued a forceful appeal on Tuesday calling for sweeping reforms to the nation’s immigration enforcement system, hours before President Donald Trump was set to deliver his State of the Union address. The group of 18 bishops and archbishops pressed Congress and the administration to restore due‑process protections and curb tactics they say are sowing fear in immigrant communities.
Their recommendations span a wide range of policy areas: ensuring migrants can request asylum at the border, shielding places like churches and schools from enforcement actions, keeping families of mixed legal status together, and ending practices such as roving patrols and the use of masks by federal agents. They also urged lawmakers to invest in programs that help deported migrants safely reintegrate in their home countries.
The bishops said that while nations have the authority to enforce immigration laws, those laws must be carried out in ways that respect human dignity. They warned that current enforcement strategies — including expedited removals, arrests without judicial warrants, and detentions inside courtrooms — undermine constitutional rights and erode trust.
Signatories included church leaders from states along both the southern and northern borders, as well as several dioceses far from either frontier. Many of them have been increasingly outspoken during Trump’s second term, arguing that stepped‑up enforcement has disproportionately harmed parishioners and destabilized communities.
Archbishop John C. Wester of Santa Fe, one of the statement’s authors, said the group felt compelled to highlight specific practices they believe violate legal norms. He pointed to reports of home raids conducted without judicial warrants, which he said have left families confused about their rights.
The bishops also criticized the administration’s push to expand detention capacity, urging officials to avoid holding vulnerable groups such as pregnant women and people with disabilities. They said they are prepared to work with lawmakers on a system that protects public safety while honoring the country’s long‑standing identity as a nation shaped by immigrants.
Feb 24, 2026 at 03:30 PM EST
Carlo Versano on What to Look Out For: Immigration
On immigration, it will be notable to see whether Trump touts the "softer touch" approach he has himself suggested his admin needs. One way to do that is to focus on his successes with border security rather than the messier and far less popular issue of interior enforcement (it still boggles my mind that Trump hasn't even visited the border this term). Does Tom Homan get a shoutout for calming the situation in Minneapolis? Does Kristi Noem get ignored for the various ways her antics at DHS have undercut and humiliated the White House? Maybe they make her the "Designated Survivor" instead.
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Feb 24, 2026 at 03:26 PM EST
U.S. women’s hockey team declines Trump’s State of the Union invite: What to know
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The U.S. women’s Olympic hockey team has turned down President Donald Trump’s invitation to attend the State of the Union address, distancing itself from a moment the White House hoped would spotlight the athletes’ recent gold‑medal win.
Trump had joked during a congratulatory call with the men’s team that he needed to invite both squads to avoid political backlash, a remark that drew attention after the call was placed on speakerphone in the locker room by FBI Director Kash Patel. The decision to broadcast the exchange prompted criticism from some observers who questioned the appropriateness of the setting and the president’s comments.
The women’s team offered no detailed explanation for declining the invitation, but their absence adds to a growing list of notable figures skipping the address as Trump prepares to deliver it on Capitol Hill.
Feb 24, 2026 at 03:13 PM EST
Sen. Peter Welch says Trump will ‘lie’ in State of the Union preview
Senator Peter Welch of Vermont issued a sharply worded statement ahead of President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address, accusing the president of being incapable of telling the truth during major national moments. Welch said he expects Trump to mislead the public in tonight’s remarks, calling it a pattern he believes has defined the administration’s communication style.
The Democrat added that he remains open to hearing how the president intends to work with lawmakers across the aisle on issues that matter to voters, from affordability to national security. Still, Welch made clear he has little confidence that such outreach will materialize, saying he is “not counting on it” as Trump prepares to outline his agenda for the year.
Feb 24, 2026 at 03:00 PM EST
Melania Trump’s Guests at SOTU
First lady Melania Trump’s guests at the 2026 State of the Union will be Sierra Burns, a participant in the Melania Trump Foster Youth to Independence Program, and Everest Nevraumont, a 10-year-old artificial-intelligence education advocate from Austin, Texas. In a statement released by the White House, Melania said the two guests “embody my ongoing mission to uplift America’s foster youth and expand opportunity for our next generation through education and technology,” calling their personal stories a reflection of her BE BEST Fostering the Future initiatives.
Sierra Burns, a participant in the Melania Trump Foster Youth to Independence Program, and Everest Nevraumont, a 10‑year‑old student and artificial‑intelligence education advocate from Austin, Texas.
"I am proud to have them join me at this historic event. Sierra and Everest represent the young people across America whose personal experience, drive, and self-motivation reflect the goals of my BE BEST Fostering the Future initiatives," Melania said in a statement.
According to the White House, Melania helped secure $30 million for foster youth housing, and launched both the Presidential Artificial Intelligence Challenge and Fostering the Future Together, a global coalition focused on empowering children through education and technology.
Feb 24, 2026 at 02:30 PM EST
Carlo Versano on What to Look out For: Foreign Policy
How much does the president dwell on foreign policy, an arena where—I believe, at least—he has had more success than his signature domestic issues of tariffs and deportations? He'll probably crow about the seven or eight (or is it more now?) wars he claims to have ended. But it would be great for the country if he took a beat to explain the rationale for what is increasingly looking like a new regime-change war in the Middle East. I would love to see him argue that decapitating the Iranian regime is of a piece with the so-called Donroe Doctrine (boxing out Beijing and Moscow by toppling their allies and proxies, one by one). The president really should be using this platform to make the case directly to the American people that going to war with Iran is in the national interest.
If you'd like to chat about this and more, join my SOTU watch party tonight over on Subtext, a new service that allows Newsweek members to contact me directly via text message.
Here's how in two simple steps:
If you aren't already (why not?), become a Newsweek member by signing up here for just $4.99 a month.
Then join me on Subtext here for free. It really is that easy.
Feb 24, 2026 at 02:00 PM EST
Supreme Court Justices May Skip Trump’s SOTU
Supreme Court justices have been known to skip the State of the Union over the years, and there's no consistent standard for them attending the address.
Justices aren't required to attend and in 2010, Chief Justice John Roberts said that attending the address is an individual decision.
“Some of my colleagues made the decision that they don’t want to go, period,” Roberts told ABA Journal at the time. “And I think that’s something that’s up to each individual member of the court.”
Roberts has been one of the court’s most consistent State of the Union attendees in the modern era. He has attended every address from 2006 to 2025, according to data compiled by The Hill. Roberts has served on the court since 2005.
Justice Elena Kagan is among the court’s most frequent State of the Union attendees. She has attended every State of the Union address since 2011, according to the data. She joined the court in 2010. Justice Brett Kavanaugh has attended every State of the Union address since 2019, according to the data. Kavanaugh began serving on the court in 2018.
Justice Sonia Sotomayor attended the State of the Union address in 2010, 2011, 2013, 2015, 2016 and 2024, according to the data. She did not attend the address in 2012, 2014, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022 and 2023. Sotomayor began serving on the court in 2009.
Justice Neil Gorsuch attended the State of the Union address in 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2024, according to the data. He was not in attendance at the address in 2022 and 2023. Gorsuch joined the court in 2017.
Justice Amy Coney Barrett attended the State of the Union address in 2022 and 2023, but she did not attend in 2024, according to the data. She began serving on the court in 2020.
Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson attended the State of the Union address in 2023 and 2024, according to the data. She joined the court in 2022.
Justice Samuel Alito last attended a State of the Union address in 2010, according to the data. At the address, Thomas shook his head and appeared to mouth "not true” after then-President Barack Obama’s comments on the court’s Citizens United ruling, according to Reuters.
Alito also attended the State of the Union address in 2006, 2007 and 2008. He began serving on the court in 2006.
Justice Clarence Thomas has been one of the least frequent attendees of the State of the Union address. He has not attended a State of the Union address since 2006, according to attendance data. The 2006 address is the only State of the Union Thomas has attended in the 21st century.
Feb 24, 2026 at 01:00 PM EST
Donald Trump’s Approval Rating Struggles Ahead of SOTU
Trump heads into his State of the Union address facing weaker polling than at the time of his previous SOTU, according to a Newsweek comparison of surveys. Recent polls show Trump’s approval rating remains underwater, with more Americans disapproving than approving of his job performance. That represents a decline from where his numbers stood ahead of his last address to Congress, underscoring the political pressure surrounding this year’s speech.
CNN polling experts described Trump as the weakest‑rated president of the 21st century heading into a State of the Union address, based on net approval ratings compared with other modern presidents at similar moments. The assessment reflects aggregated polling data rather than a single outlier survey, reinforcing the view that Trump’s challenges are broad and persistent rather than driven by one unfavorable poll.
Despite the negative numbers, the White House has pushed back strongly on the polling narrative. Administration officials told Newsweek that Trump has delivered on key campaign promises and remains a dominant political figure, while the president himself has publicly dismissed unfavorable surveys and claimed record‑high support. Still, the polling backdrop means Trump will deliver his State of the Union with public opinion tilted against him, making the address a potential inflection point for reshaping perceptions of his second‑term presidency.
Feb 24, 2026 at 12:36 PM EST
Text With Newsweek’s Carlo Versano During Trump’s State of the Union
Happy State of the Union Day to those who celebrate.
I, for one, do not. But I do celebrate our Newsweek community, and nothing builds community like collectively watching a two-hour speech that could’ve been an email. Even if that speech starts at 9 p.m., which should be illegal. So tonight, instead of suffering alone, I’m proposing we do it together.
If you're interested, we're going to do a little SOTU watch party tonight over on Subtext, a new service that allows Newsweek members to contact me directly via text message. It's been great fun so far. I plan to sign on right after I get the munchkin to bed, and we can watch and text together...at least until I fall asleep. Come one, come all.
Here's how in two simple steps:
If you aren't already (why not?), become a Newsweek member by signing up here for just $4.99 a month.
Then join me on Subtext here for free. It really is that easy.
We also want a series of regular posts throughout the day/evening with snippets from what Carlo is looking out for from the same article.
Feb 24, 2026 at 11:44 AM EST
Who is this year’s designated survivor?
Every State of the Union needs a designated survivor in the event of a catastrophic attack on the Capitol.
The precaution involves a senior official being kept at a secure location away from the U.S. Capitol to ensure continuity of government if the president, Congress and other top leaders were incapacitated. The practice dates back to the Cold War and was later formalized under the Carter and Reagan administrations.
The designated survivor is typically a member of the president's cabinet. When Trump addressed a joint session of Congress last March, Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins was selected for the role.
This year's designated survivor has not yet been announced.
Congress also appoints designated survivors from the House and Senate: two Democrats and two Republicans.
California Democratic Representative Mike Thompson was selected by House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries to be the party's designated survivor this year, according to a press release from Thompson's office on Monday.
Feb 24, 2026 at 10:28 AM EST
What was the longest State of the Union address?
Donald Trump has promised tonight's State of the Union will be a long speech - but how might it compare to some of the lengthier addresses in history? Below are the longest State of the Union addresses by U.S. presidents.
Bill Clinton (2000) - 16,445 words
The longest SOTU ever. Clinton used his final address to lay out an expansive policy wish-list and defend his legacy at the end of his presidency.
Bill Clinton (1995) - 9,190 words
Delivered just weeks after Republicans took control of Congress, this was a detailed, combative speech aimed at reclaiming the political initiative.
George W. Bush (2007) - 8,700 words
Focused heavily on the Iraq War “surge,” national security, and immigration, as Bush entered the final stretch of his presidency.
Barack Obama (2015) - 6,700 words
A forward-looking speech centered on middle-class economics, climate change, and foreign policy priorities.
Donald Trump (2019) - 5,400 words
One of Trump’s longest, notable for its campaign-style tone and sharp partisan contrasts ahead of the 2020 election cycle.
Feb 24, 2026 at 10:02 AM EST
Is the US hockey team going to State Of The Union?
Only part of Team USA hockey is expected to attend the State of the Union.
The U.S. women’s team, which won Olympic gold last week, declined the invitation, citing pre‑existing academic and professional commitments after the Games.
Their response came after President Donald Trump was videoed on a call with the men's team joking that he would be "impeached" if he did not invite the women.
The U.S. men’s team accepted Trump’s invite, though attendance is expected to be partial, with some players unable to go because the NHL season resumes this week.
Feb 24, 2026 at 09:43 AM EST
State Of The Union road closures in Washington D.C.
A number of road closures will be implemented around the Capitol on Tuesday, February 24, as President Trump delivers the State of the Union address at 9 p.m. Officials said the restrictions are necessary to support security operations throughout the day.
Road Closures Starting at 12:01 a.m.
First Street between Constitution Avenue NW and Independence Avenue SW
Pennsylvania Avenue between 3rd Street NW and First Street NW
Maryland Avenue between 3rd Street SW and First Street SW
Road Closures Starting at 1:00 p.m.
First Street between Constitution Avenue NE and Independence Avenue SE
East Capitol Street between First Street and Second Street
Road Closures Starting at 5:30 p.m.
Constitution Avenue between Louisiana Avenue NW and 2nd Street NE
Independence Avenue between Washington Avenue SW and 2nd Street SE
First Street between Constitution Avenue NW and Louisiana Avenue NW
First Street between the Rayburn House Office Building garage entrance and Independence Avenue SW
D Street between First Street NE and 2nd Street NE
Maryland Avenue between First Street NE and Constitution Avenue NE
New Jersey Avenue between C Street NW and Constitution Avenue NW
Road Closures Starting at 7:00 p.m.
First Street between Columbus Circle NE and D Street NE
D Street between Louisiana Avenue NW and First Street NE
Delaware Avenue between Columbus Circle NE and D Street NE
Second Street between Constitution Avenue NE and Independence Avenue SE
Constitution Avenue between 3rd Street NW and Louisiana Avenue NW
First Street between C Street NW and Louisiana Avenue NW
Independence Avenue between 3rd Street SW and Washington Avenue SW
Washington Avenue between Independence Avenue SW and C Street SW
Second Street between Washington Avenue SW and C Street SW
Tour Bus Restrictions
Tour buses will also be rerouted away from the Capitol Complex from 12:01 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Feb 24, 2026 at 09:23 AM EST
Which Democrats are boycotting the State of the Union?
According to organizers of the rally scheduled to take place during Trump’s State of the Union address, the following Democratic lawmakers plan to skip the speech:
- Senator Ed Markey of Massachusetts
- Senator Jeff Merkley of Oregon
- Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut
- Senator Tina Smith of Minnesota
- Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland
- Representative Yassamin Ansari of Arizona
- Representative Becca Balint of Vermont
- Representative Greg Casar of Texas
- Representative Veronica Escobar of Texas
- Representative Pramila Jayapal of Washington
- Representative Delia Ramirez of Illinois
- Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman of New Jersey
Feb 24, 2026 at 09:03 AM EST
Who is giving the Democratic State Of The Union response?
The official Democratic response to President Trump’s State of the Union address will be delivered by Abigail Spanberger, the newly elected governor of Virginia who flipped a Republican-held state in 2025. Spanberger, a former three-term member of the U.S. House known for her centrist appeal, will offer the party’s rebuttal shortly after Trump’s speech concludes, giving Democrats a high-profile platform to contrast their priorities with the president’s agenda.
In addition to Spanberger’s response in English, Alex Padilla, a senator from California, will deliver the Spanish-language version, targeting Latino voters and communities who have been impacted more by the administration’s immigration policies.
Feb 24, 2026 at 08:44 AM EST
When is Trump’s State Of The Union address and where will it air?
President Donald Trump will deliver the first official State of the Union address of his second term at 9 p.m. ET tonight, February 24. (That's 8 p.m. Central, 7 p.m. Mountain, and 6 p.m. Pacific). Trump will address U.S. lawmakers in the House of Representatives.
All major networks—ABC, CNN, PBS, and Fox News—plan to air the speech, with several also offering livestreams on their websites and apps.
Newsweek will have pictures and video from the speech as the evening goes on.
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