Trump Touts 'Golden Age' in State of the Union Address

President's speech sets new personal record, sparks partisan reactions

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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In his first State of the Union address of his second term, President Donald Trump painted a triumphant picture of the country, declaring 'Our nation is back, bigger, better, richer and stronger than ever before.' The lengthy speech, which set a new personal record at 1 hour and 48 minutes, touched on economic, trade, and immigration themes, drawing criticism from Democrats who disputed the president's claims.

Why it matters

The address came as public polling shows slipping support for the president on key issues, particularly the economy, with midterm elections less than nine months away. Trump's rhetoric and policy positions outlined in the speech are likely to shape the political landscape and campaign messaging heading into the 2024 election cycle.

The details

Trump devoted much of the night to economic themes, insisting 'The roaring economy is roaring like never before,' and pointing to lower gas prices, a surging stock market and oil shipments from Venezuela. He also defended his tariff policies, despite a recent Supreme Court ruling that found he overstepped his authority. Democrats quickly disputed those claims, accusing the president of creating higher costs and taxes for Americans. Trump also announced a plan requiring major tech companies to generate their own power to offset rising electricity demand from AI data centers.

  • The address came as public polling shows slipping support for the president on key issues, particularly the economy, with midterm elections less than nine months away.
  • Trump's speech set a new personal record at 1 hour and 48 minutes.

The players

Donald Trump

The 45th and current President of the United States, serving his second term.

Chuck Schumer

The Senate Minority Leader.

Elizabeth Warren

A U.S. Senator from Massachusetts.

Brendan Boyle

A U.S. Representative from Pennsylvania.

Ilhan Omar

A U.S. Representative from Minnesota.

Norma Torres

A U.S. Representative from California.

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What they’re saying

“Higher costs, tariff taxes, higher healthcare premiums — how is this making life more affordable for Americans?”

— Chuck Schumer, Senate Minority Leader (X)

“Donald Trump called this the 'golden age of America.' For who?”

— Elizabeth Warren, U.S. Senator (N/A)

“The tariffs are a 'national sales tax.'”

— Brendan Boyle, U.S. Representative (N/A)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.