With a focus solely on the November legislative elections, the president sought to regain control of the national narrative in an event that prioritized television spectacle and virality over institutional solemnity.
Trump proclaimed the beginning of a "golden era" for the United States, stating in his opening words that the nation is "richer and stronger than ever." For nearly two hours, the president listed supposed successes, claiming that under his leadership, inflation is plummeting and the border is finally secure, ignoring critical voices pointing out economic stagnation and the immigration crisis. The event turned into a total "show," with live medal presentations and the appearance of star guests, such as the men's ice hockey team, used to exemplify the idea of a country that "keeps on winning."
However, the aggressive staging failed to conceal the moment of weakness the White House is going through. The speech comes as the president's popularity is at record lows and with a growing sense that Trump is starting to act like a "lame duck," unable to control a Congress that has already blocked funding for key agencies. Far from building bridges to reconcile a fractured nation, the president chose direct confrontation, focusing his attacks on the opposition, equality policies, and immigration.
One of the most tense moments occurred when Trump urged lawmakers to stand if they agreed that the government's first duty is to protect American citizens rather than "illegal immigrants." The scene, which left half of the chamber sitting amid boos and disapproving gestures, was a calculated move to fuel future Republican campaign ads. From the expulsion of critical congressmen to the parade of crime victims, the president closed by appealing to the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary. Although Trump concluded by stating that the state of the Union is "strong," the event showed that the country remains deeply divided and that polarization in Washington is nearly irreversible.