Trump Delivers 2026 State of the Union Address

President Donald Trump is scheduled to deliver his State of the Union address Tuesday at 9 p.m. ET in the U.S. Capitol. The address is expected to highlight the administration’s economic achievements.

The speech occurs during a period of political challenge for Trump, with recent polls indicating declining public approval regarding the economy ahead of the upcoming midterm elections. These elections could potentially shift control of Washington away from the Republican party.

Recent Legal and Political Developments

The address follows a Supreme Court decision overturning tariffs that have been a cornerstone of Trump’s economic policy. The president is also awaiting a ruling from the Supreme Court concerning his authority over the Federal Reserve. Additionally, the administration is considering military action in Iran and navigating a partial shutdown of the Homeland Security Department stemming from Democratic concerns about the department’s law enforcement activities.

Economic Focus and Agenda

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has stated that Trump’s speech will emphasize the economy and outline an agenda aimed at bolstering the American Dream for working-class citizens. Democrats have been focusing on affordability as a key issue, a strategy that proved successful in off-year elections following a similar approach by the Republican party in the previous year.

State of the Union Tradition

Tuesday’s address will be Trump’s first official State of the Union address of his second term. Traditionally, presidents deliver a joint address to Congress during their first year in office. State of the Union addresses are a constitutional requirement and provide a platform for presidents to present their political agenda to Congress and the public. Attendees typically include members of both chambers of Congress, Supreme Court justices, military leaders, and the president’s cabinet.

Democratic Response

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger will deliver the Democratic response immediately following Trump’s address. Spanberger, who secured the Virginia Executive Mansion in 2025 with a focus on affordability, was selected to deliver the rebuttal. Senator Alex Padilla, D-Calif., will provide the Spanish-language response.