President Donald Trump delivered his 2026 State of the Union address on Tuesday night before a joint session of Congress, asserting that his administration has achieved a 'transformation like no one has ever seen before' after just one year back in office. Speaking at 9 p.m. EST from the U.S. Capitol under the theme 'America at 250: Strong, Prosperous and Respected,' Trump highlighted economic progress, border security, and foreign policy successes while blaming Democrats for a partial Department of Homeland Security shutdown.

Trump opened by celebrating the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary, invoking the spirit of 1776 and pledging to build a future where 'every child has the chance to reach higher and go farther.' He credited his policies with driving factories, jobs, and trillions in investment back to the U.S., pointing to inflation dropping to 2.4 percent, mortgage rates below 6 percent, and the Dow surpassing 50,000 points. The president touted provisions from the 'One Big Beautiful Bill,' including no taxes on tips, overtime, or Social Security benefits, and vowed additional personal tax cuts to boost affordability.

On immigration, Trump sharply criticized Democrats for cutting DHS funding, which has led to a shutdown since February 14, declaring, 'Tonight, I am demanding the full and immediate restoration of all funding for the Border Security and Homeland Security of the United States.' He cited a $19 billion fraud scheme allegedly involving Minnesota's Somali community and actions against Mexican cartels, including the handover of leaders. The address also featured the awarding of the Medal of Honor to 100-year-old Korean War veteran E. Royce Williams.

Foreign policy drew emphasis on 'peace through strength,' with Trump recounting airstrikes on Iran's nuclear sites, the ouster of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, and a Gaza ceasefire. He warned of potential action against Iran unless it agrees not to build nuclear weapons and endorsed the 'Golden Dome' missile defense shield. The speech comes amid briefings for top lawmakers on Iran tensions and a recent Supreme Court ruling striking down many of his tariffs.

Trump's guests included his entire family, the U.S. men's Olympic hockey gold medal team, and Erika Kirk, widow of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk. Democrats countered with Epstein abuse survivors and wore white in protest, while over two dozen boycotted for alternative events. Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger delivered the Democratic response from Colonial Williamsburg, criticizing administration 'chaos' on costs and immigration.

The address, expected to be among Trump's longest, aims to rally Republicans ahead of November midterms amid polls showing public concerns over costs despite economic gains. House Speaker Mike Johnson presided, using George Washington's 1793 gavel to mark the semiquincentennial.