2026 State of the Union: Date, Trump’s Address and What to Expect Tonight
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Tonight marks one of the most watched moments in American politics as President Donald Trump delivers the 2026 State of the Union (SOTU) address before a joint session of Congress. The speech is expected to draw millions of viewers, shake up the national conversation, and set the tone for the remainder of the year — especially with the 2026 midterm elections looming.
Date and of the 2026 State of the Union
The 2026 State of the Union Address is scheduled for Tuesday, February 24, 2026, beginning at 9:00 p.m. Eastern (ET). The speech will be delivered in the House Chamber of the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C., where Trump will outline his administration’s priorities and reflect on key policy initiatives.
What Is the State of the Union Address Tonight?
For viewers tuning in tonight, the address starts at 9:00 p.m. ET. Pre-speech coverage typically begins earlier in the evening, with networks offering analysis, interviews with lawmakers, and previews of what the president is expected to focus on.
How to Watch and Coverage Details
Major national and cable news networks — including ABC, CBS, NBC, CNN, Fox News and public broadcasters — plan to broadcast the event live. Streaming platforms and network apps are also expected to carry live coverage, giving viewers multiple options to watch the speech in real .
Many outlets begin coverage around 8:00 p.m. ET, an hour before the official 9:00 p.m. ET start , to set the stage with expert commentary and political analysis. Observers say this year’s speech will be tightly watched for messaging on immigration, the economy, and foreign policy, all of which are central issues for voters ahead of November’s elections.
What Is the State of the Union Address?
The State of the Union is an annual constitutional requirement in which the president reports to Congress on the condition of the nation and recommends legislative priorities. It is traditionally delivered in late January or February and serves as a high-profile moment to articulate policy goals and national direction.
This year’s address is President Trump’s first official SOTU speech of his second term and his fourth overall. As mandated by the Constitution, the president uses this platform to discuss achievements, lay out future plans, and speak directly to the American people and lawmakers under one roof.
Key Themes and Political Context
Tonight’s State of the Union comes during a politically charged moment. Trump’s administration has faced controversy over trade policy after the U.S. Supreme Court blocked key tariff actions and ongoing tensions in international affairs, particularly involving Iran. On the domestic front, immigration standoffs and budget disputes have shaped much of the political debate leading up to the speech.
The address also serves as a strategic opportunity for Trump to define his record and goals as Republicans and Democrats gear up for the 2026 midterms, where control of both the House and Senate is closely contested.
Political Responses and Rebuttals
Following the president’s address, parties traditionally release official responses. This year, the Democratic rebuttal is expected immediately after Trump’s speech, offering a contrasting perspective on national priorities. Politicians from both parties have signaled that tonight’s address will be a focal point for broader campaign narratives.
Some Democratic lawmakers are also organizing alternative events and protests in Washington, underscoring political divisions as the nation watches the address unfold.
Why Tonight’s Address Matters
The 2026 State of the Union address is more than a speech — it’s a policy roadmap and political flashpoint. With critical issues including border security, international relations, and economic direction on the national agenda, millions will tune in tonight to see how President Trump frames his vision for the year ahead and how lawmakers respond.
When is the State of the Union tonight? It starts at 9:00 p.m. ET, with coverage across major networks beginning earlier in the evening.
Stay tuned for live reactions and analysis as the 2026 State of the Union address unfolds.
