Trump Delivers Longest State of the Union Address in U.S. History

Axios

U.S. President Donald Trump delivers State of the Union address.

U.S. President Donald Trump delivered the latest State of the Union address on 24 February 2026 before a joint session of Congress in Washington, D.C., marking his first official address of his second term in office.

The speech, which lasted approximately one hour and 48 minutes, became the longest State of the Union address in U.S. history.

In his remarks, Trump reviewed his administration’s record on the economy, immigration and national security, while outlining legislative and policy priorities for the year ahead. He highlighted what he described as economic gains, including falling inflation, rising incomes and record-high stock markets. He also defended his tariff policies, claimed “zero” illegal border crossings in recent months, and issued a stern warning to Iran over its nuclear ambitions.

Trump additionally addressed technology and energy, noting agreements with tech companies to meet rising demands from AI data centres, and celebrated American achievements, honouring Olympic athletes and military figures. He framed his second term as the start of a “golden age of America”, setting an ambitious tone for the coming year.

The State of the Union address is delivered annually under a constitutional requirement that the president inform Congress about the condition of the nation and recommend necessary measures. The speech is regarded as one of the most significant events in the U.S. political calendar, shaping legislative debate and policy direction in the months that follow.

Sources: The Guardian, Reuters, and PBS News



PUKMEDIA