US President Donald Trump used his State of the Union address to highlight what he described as major achievements during his return to office, portraying his administration’s first year as a historic turnaround despite sliding approval ratings and mounting political pressure ahead of midterm elections.
Speaking for one hour and 47 minutes — the longest such address of his presidency — Trump presented an optimistic assessment of the country’s direction, declaring that the United States is “stronger and more prosperous than ever.” He characterized his administration’s record as transformative and unprecedented.
The speech was met with strong applause from Republican lawmakers, while many Democrats remained seated and, at times, voiced their disapproval. Although Trump criticized Democrats during the address, his tone was more restrained than in some previous appearances. However, critics noted that the speech included few concrete policy proposals.
On foreign policy, Trump focused heavily on Iran, alleging that Tehran is again pursuing nuclear weapons capabilities and long-range missile development. He reiterated that Iran would not be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon but indicated that he preferred a diplomatic resolution to escalating tensions. Iran has consistently denied seeking nuclear arms.
The president also highlighted military and security actions, referencing operations in Latin America and the Middle East, and praised US service members.
He awarded several national honors during the address, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom to members of the US Olympic ice hockey team and Medals of Honor to decorated veterans.
On domestic issues, Trump defended his economic record but offered limited detail on strategies to address inflation and rising living costs — issues that have weighed heavily on voters. Recent polling shows his approval ratings below 40 percent, with public dissatisfaction particularly strong regarding economic management.
Democratic leaders were quick to respond. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer described the speech as disconnected from the realities facing ordinary Americans, arguing that it failed to tackle pressing economic challenges.
Trump also renewed his calls for stricter voter identification laws, again claiming widespread election fraud — assertions that have been repeatedly challenged and dismissed by courts and election officials.
The address came amid several political headwinds for the president, including a recent Supreme Court decision striking down aspects of his trade tariff policies. While he briefly acknowledged the court during the event, he criticized the ruling as unfavorable.
With control of Congress at stake in the upcoming midterm elections, the speech appeared aimed at rallying Republican support and reshaping public perception of his leadership as his administration faces both domestic criticism and foreign policy challenges.