Trump Delivers Longest State of the Union, Defends Economy and Tariffs

US President Donald Trump delivered the longest State of the Union address in history on Tuesday night, hailing what he called a historic economic turnaround while warning Iran against pursuing nuclear weapons. The speech, which lasted nearly one hour and 50 minutes, laid out Trump’s second-term agenda ahead of November’s midterm elections and drew sharp reactions from Democrats.

Trump repeatedly defended his economic record, saying the US economy was “roaring like never before” after what he described as a difficult inheritance from the previous administration. He pointed to falling mortgage rates and claimed progress on lowering certain consumer prices, including beef and eggs. However, official data shows that while some prices have eased in recent months, grocery costs overall remain higher than a year ago.

The president also addressed his controversial tariff policies, criticising a recent Supreme Court ruling that struck down many of his global levies. Trump said the tariffs would remain in place under alternative legal authorities, insisting they were essential to protecting American industry. The ruling has created uncertainty for several US trading partners, including the UK, India and the European Union, which are now seeking clarity on previously negotiated trade deals.

On foreign policy, Trump emphasised what he called a “peace through strength” doctrine. He warned Iran against developing a nuclear weapons programme, saying he preferred diplomacy but would not hesitate to act if necessary. He also touted US operations abroad, including actions targeting drug trafficking networks and the arrest of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro.

Immigration was another key focus, with Trump highlighting what he described as major progress in reducing illegal border crossings. He did not directly address criticism over recent enforcement actions that have sparked concern among some voters. Democrats responded swiftly. Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger, delivering the party’s official rebuttal, accused Trump of offering “no real solutions” to rising costs and national challenges. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries called the past year a “complete disaster,” while Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer described the speech as “disconnected from reality.”

The address underscored the deep political divide in Washington as both parties prepare for high-stakes midterm elections. While Trump projected confidence about what he called a new “Golden Age” for America, opinion polls suggest a more mixed public response to his second-term agenda.