President Trump delivered a 1 hour 48 minute address highlighting economic achievements while threatening Iran, blaming Democrats for high costs of living.
Economic Claims and Criticism of Democrats
Trump, facing declining ratings and voter anger over high living costs, emphasized what he called excellent economic conditions, repeatedly exaggerating statistics. Despite facts, he claimed inflation is “peaking” and noted gasoline prices are lower than under his predecessor. He again claimed foreign companies declared $18 trillion in investments during his tenure, though this includes promises from his predecessor. He blamed Democrats for rising living costs.
“We will deal with this problem,” Trump assured. When he asked everyone to stand if they believe the state’s primary duty is to care for US citizens, not illegal immigrants, and Democrats remained seated, he said they “should be ashamed.”
Immigration, Healthcare, and Tech Agreement
Trump emphasized radical immigration restrictions and claimed the lowest crime statistics in 100 years. He promised radical reductions in healthcare costs and announced an agreement with tech companies to balance energy cost increases where data centers for artificial intelligence are created.
Foreign Policy Focus on Iran and Venezuela
In foreign policy, Trump focused on threats from Iran and “restoring American dominance” in the Western Hemisphere, especially the operation to capture Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela. He did not mention China or Asia, and spoke only briefly about the war in Ukraine on its fourth anniversary. Regarding Iran, he said he prefers diplomacy but will never allow Tehran to possess nuclear weapons.
Speaking about Venezuela, he told the story of helicopter pilot Erik Slover, wounded during the operation, who received the Medal of Honor, along with 100-year-old World War II veteran Royce Williams.
Speech Details and Congressional Tradition
Trump’s speech lasted 1 hour and 48 minutes, the longest in history, breaking his own record from the previous year. As per tradition, he invited guests including ice hockey champions from the Winter Olympics, families of young women murdered by illegal immigrants, and parents of Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarucka. Olympians served as an example of how “America is winning too much” under his rule.
Democratic politicians also invited guests including victims of Jeffrey Epstein and their families. Dozens of Democrats boycotted the speech, with many leaving shortly after it began. As every year, Veterans Affairs Doug Collins served as the “designated survivor” in an undisclosed location.
