when is the state of the union address 2026 — date, time and how to watch
President Donald Trump will deliver the 2026 State of the Union to a joint session of Congress on Tuesday, February 24, beginning at 9 p. m. ET. The annual address will present the president’s legislative priorities and policy agenda for the year, with extensive television and digital coverage scheduled across the evening.
When and where to watch
The speech is set to begin at 9: 00 p. m. ET on Tuesday, February 24. Broadcast and cable coverage typically spans the hour of the address and immediate reaction, with most coverage running through roughly 11: 00 p. m. ET. Some networks and digital streams will open preview windows earlier in the evening; on certain outlets, pre-address programming can begin as early as 8: 50 p. m. ET to set the scene, review guest lists and provide final analysis.
Viewers who prefer streaming will find multiple live streams and simulcasts available on major platforms and services. The event will also be accessible through the official channels associated with the presidency and on a wide range of news and streaming services that routinely carry major speeches. Local viewing options may vary, so those planning to watch should check their preferred providers for lineup details and start times for pre-show coverage.
What to expect from the address and the surrounding coverage
This will be the first formal State of the Union delivered by the president in this calendar year, following a previous joint address to Congress delivered last year that was not labeled a State of the Union. The constitutional requirement for the president to update Congress on the state of the nation frames the address, and presidents typically use the occasion to outline policy goals, legislative priorities and executive achievements.
Expect commentators and analysts to focus on economic messaging, border and immigration policy, national security issues and legislative initiatives the administration wants Congress to consider. Given the timing of the speech in an election cycle, political messaging and appeals to key constituencies are likely to feature prominently. Congressional reactions—both applause lines and visible opposition—will be part of the broadcast narrative, as will designated guests seated in the chamber who underscore themes highlighted by the president.
National and local anchors will generally offer pre-show panels and expert analysis, followed by immediate post-speech breakdowns that discuss takeaways, likely political impacts and what’s next on the legislative calendar. Longer-form analysis and fact-checking segments typically follow in the hours and days after the address.
Practical viewing tips
Plan to tune in a few minutes early if you want to catch pre-address commentary and the arrival of dignitaries and members of Congress. If you prefer real-time reactions, watch the post-address panels that usually run for an hour or more after the speech concludes. For those following specific policy announcements, transcripts and official statements will be released soon after the address for closer review.
For viewers outside the United States or in different time zones: the start time is 9 p. m. Eastern Time, which may require late-night viewing depending on location. Check local listings and streaming schedules if you intend to watch on a delayed feed or rebroadcast.
The State of the Union remains a key ritual in American political life — a single-night snapshot of priorities from the Oval Office that helps set the agenda for lawmakers and voters heading into the months ahead.
