Washington, United States (Web Desk) – US President Donald Trump declared the arrival of a “Golden Age of America” as he delivered a high-stakes State of the Union address on Tuesday, seeking to reset his presidency amid sliding approval ratings and growing political pressure ahead of the November midterm elections.
“Our nation is back – bigger, better, richer and stronger than ever before,” Trump told Congress, drawing loud chants of “USA” from Republican lawmakers, while Democrats remained largely silent in protest.
The speech, broadcast live in prime time, marked Trump’s second address to Congress since returning to the White House 13 months ago. It comes at a critical moment for the Republican Party as campaigns intensify for control of Congress in the 2026 US midterm elections.
During the address, Democratic Representative Al Green was removed from the House chamber for the second consecutive year after displaying a sign criticizing the president. The protest referenced a social media video previously shared from Trump’s account depicting former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama in an offensive manner. The White House later removed the video, with Trump attributing the post to a staff member.
Economic Focus Amid Voter Concerns
Trump used much of his address to emphasize economic achievements, claiming inflation is “plummeting.” However, many Americans continue to face high prices for groceries, housing, insurance and utilities compared with pre-pandemic levels.
According to a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll, only 36% of Americans approve of Trump’s handling of the economy, a key issue that powered his 2024 election victory. White House aides had reportedly urged the president to focus heavily on cost-of-living concerns, as inflation and household expenses remain central voter priorities.
Trump also highlighted American “wins,” including a recent gold medal victory by the US men’s ice hockey team at the Winter Olympics, in a nod to his frequent use of celebratory rhetoric.
Legal and Political Headwinds
The president faces mounting challenges domestically and internationally. Days before the speech, the Supreme Court of the United States struck down his signature global tariffs policy, delivering a legal setback to his trade agenda. Trump signaled he would seek alternative legal pathways to reinstate key elements of the tariff regime.
Meanwhile, tensions remain high over immigration policy, with the Department of Homeland Security partially shut down amid a congressional funding dispute. Concerns are also rising over Iran’s nuclear program, with the White House indicating Trump may outline potential policy steps, including military options, without providing specifics.
Tuesday also marked the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, underscoring Trump’s unfulfilled campaign pledge to swiftly end the conflict. The war in Ukraine remains a defining geopolitical issue for his administration.
Democrats, for their part, sought to draw attention to controversies surrounding convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, inviting individuals who accuse Epstein of abuse to attend the address.
Midterm Stakes
With control of Congress hanging in the balance, the speech was widely viewed as a pivotal moment for Trump to rally Republican voters and reassure independents.
Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger delivered the official Democratic response, framing the upcoming elections as a referendum on economic management, democratic institutions and America’s global standing.
Trump hinted his address would be lengthy and include unscripted moments, continuing a pattern from his previous record-setting speech to Congress.
As the 2026 midterm elections approach, Tuesday’s address underscored the sharply divided political climate shaping the next chapter of US politics.
