Trump’s longest State of the Union address is light on details
US President Donald Trump concludes his remarks during the State of the Union address in the House Chamber of the US Capitol in Washington, DC, on February 24, 2026. (Photo by ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS / AFP via Getty Images)
Andrew Caballero-reynolds | Afp | Getty Images
In the longest State of the Union speech in history, U.S. President Donald Trump touted achivements in his first year, claiming that the “golden age of America” was back, taking credit for economic gains and touting his roles in international conflicts.
However, his portrayal may not resonate with ordinary Americans — just 39% of U.S. adults approved of Trump’s handling of the economy in February, according to AP-NORC polling.
He also said that tariffs were responsible for the “roaring” American economy, days after the Supreme Court overruled the tariffs that have underpinned much of his economic policy. Trump also claimed to stop eight wars since he came to office, a number that has been widely disputed.
However, while the speech tread on familiar policies and goals (and some criticisms at opponents), there were little new initiatives from the U.S. President, which is facing sinking poll numbers ahead of the midterm elections that loom less than nine months away.
— CNBC’s Dan Mangan, Garrett Downs, Spencer Kimball and Megan Sauer contributed to this report.
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