When Is the State of the Union Address 2026?

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Americans searching “when is the State of the Union address 2026?” now have a clear answer. The 2026 State of the Union address is scheduled for Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 9:00 p.m. Eastern Time (ET). The annual address will take place inside the House Chamber at the United States Capitol, where the president will speak before a joint session of Congress.

The speech marks one of the most closely watched political events of the year, drawing millions of viewers across television and streaming platforms nationwide.

What Time Is the State of the Union Address 2026?

For those asking what time is the State of the Union address 2026? — the official start time is 9:00 p.m. ET on Tuesday, Feb. 24.

Here’s how that translates across the United States:

Major networks are expected to begin live coverage at least an hour before the address, typically around 8:00 p.m. ET, with previews and political analysis.

Who Is Delivering the 2026 State of the Union?

The 2026 address will be delivered by Donald Trump as part of his current term in office. The speech will outline the administration’s priorities, legislative goals, and assessment of the nation’s condition.

The president is constitutionally required to periodically inform Congress about the “state of the union,” a tradition that has evolved into a major televised prime-time event. While early presidents delivered written messages, the modern format features a live address before lawmakers, Cabinet officials, Supreme Court justices, and invited guests.

Where Does the State of the Union Take Place?

The State of the Union is traditionally held in the House Chamber inside the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C..

The chamber is reconfigured for the event, with additional seating for guests and security heightened across Capitol grounds. The vice president and the Speaker of the House sit behind the president during the speech, a visual hallmark of the annual address.

Why the 2026 State of the Union Matters

The 2026 speech arrives during a politically significant year, with midterm elections on the horizon. Analysts expect the president to focus on key issues such as:

• The U.S. economy and inflation

• Immigration and border policy

• Foreign relations and national security

• Legislative priorities for the remainder of the term

Because it is delivered in prime time, the State of the Union provides a powerful platform for shaping public perception and framing the political narrative heading into the election cycle.

What Happens After the Speech?

Immediately following the president’s remarks, the opposition party traditionally delivers a formal rebuttal. This response offers an alternative perspective on national policy and priorities.

In addition to the televised response, lawmakers and political leaders typically hold press conferences and appear on news programs throughout the night and into the next morning.

Quick Facts: State of the Union Address 2026

• Date: Tuesday, February 24, 2026

• Time: 9:00 p.m. ET

• Location: House Chamber, United States Capitol

• Delivered by: President Donald Trump

• Broadcast: Major networks and streaming platforms

For anyone asking “when is the State of the Union address 2026?” — the answer is clear: Tuesday, February 24 at 9:00 p.m. Eastern Time. With national attention focused on Capitol Hill, the 2026 address is expected to be one of the defining political moments of the year.