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Democrats are planning boycotts and silent protests during the address, which is required by the U.S. Constitution to provide Congress with an update on the State of the Union. Minnesota Senator Tina Smith said she would skip the speech, criticizing Trump for using his speeches to “spread lies” and noting they tend to be long and tedious.
This speech follows a year in which Trump has wielded unprecedented executive authority, targeted political opponents, and made headlines at home and abroad. He is expected to highlight his administration’s accomplishments in immigration, particularly on reducing crossings at the southern border, although public opinion remains divided. While many support his general stance on immigration, voters disapprove of aggressive deportation raids that resulted in the deaths of two U.S. citizens in January.
On economic matters, Trump will tout efforts to reduce inflation and revive what he calls America’s “Golden Age.” However, persistent concerns about the rising cost of living, blamed partly on tariffs struck down by the Supreme Court, continue to challenge his narrative.
The global community will be watching closely for signals of possible military intervention against Iran, amid a significant U.S. military buildup aimed at pressuring Tehran into negotiations over its nuclear program. Historically, the State of the Union has been used to shape foreign policy messaging, as President George W. Bush did in 2003 to justify the invasion of Iraq.
Both parties will bring distinguished guests to watch the address from the gallery, continuing a longstanding tradition. Trump has extended invitations to the U.S. men’s ice hockey team, fresh from their Olympic gold medal victory over Canada, but the women’s team declined, amid jokes from the president suggesting they would face impeachment if they didn’t accept.
Meanwhile, Democratic Representatives plan to bring family members of a victim associated with Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced financier. Trump has repeatedly denied any ties to Epstein, though the ongoing scandal continues to cast a shadow over his presidency.
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