US President Donald Trump defended his economic record and declared the start of a new “golden age” during his State of the Union address on Tuesday, as he sought to project confidence amid slipping approval ratings and mounting political challenges.
Speaking before a joint session of Congress, Trump devoted much of the first hour of his speech to the economy, highlighting lower inflation, record stock market gains, sweeping tax cuts, and reduced drug prices.
“Our nation is back — bigger, better, richer and stronger than ever before,” Trump said to loud applause from Republican lawmakers, while Democrats largely remained silent.
Economic Claims Under Scrutiny
Despite the president’s optimism, recent data showed the US economy slowed more than expected last quarter while inflation accelerated.
A Reuters/Ipsos poll found only 36% of Americans approve of his handling of the economy.
Trump acknowledged last week’s ruling by the Supreme Court of the United States, which struck down his tariff regime, calling the decision “unfortunate” but avoiding the harsh criticism he had previously directed at the justices.
With midterm elections approaching in November — when all 435 House seats and about a third of Senate seats are up for grabs — both parties see the address as politically significant.
Heated Exchanges Over Immigration
Tensions rose when Trump shifted to immigration, defending his administration’s crackdown and accusing Democrats of undermining border security efforts.
“You should be ashamed,” he told Democratic lawmakers, blaming them for refusing to fully fund the Department of Homeland Security without curbs on enforcement tactics.
Democratic Representative Ilhan Omar interrupted the speech, accusing the administration of harming Americans, while Representative Al Green was removed from the chamber after holding up a protest sign.
Several Democratic lawmakers skipped the address entirely, opting to attend anti-Trump rallies outside the Capitol.
Others staged symbolic protests, including wearing clothing highlighting issues such as affordability and healthcare.
Political Stakes Remain High
Trump also repeated his longstanding claims about voter fraud, pushing for voter identification requirements — a move Democrats argue could suppress turnout.
The speech underscored deep partisan divisions at a moment when the president faces economic pressures, foreign policy anxieties involving Iran, and voter frustration over the cost of living.
As the midterms draw closer, the address served both as a celebration of Trump’s policy agenda and a preview of the contentious political battles ahead.
