State of the Union 2026: Date, Time, and What to Know About the State of the Union Address

The State of the Union 2026 is set to draw national attention as lawmakers, political leaders, and millions of Americans tune in for the annual State of the Union address. Questions such as when is the State of the Union 2026, what time is the State of the Union address tonight, and state of the union 2026 date and time have surged as the event approaches.

Here is everything confirmed so far about the State of the Union 2026 date and time, along with what to expect.

When Is the State of the Union 2026?

The State of the Union 2026 date is scheduled for Tuesday, February 3, 2026, continuing the modern tradition of delivering the address in late January or early February.

The speech will take place at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., inside the House chamber before a joint session of U.S. Congress.

For those asking when is state of the union 2026, the official calendar confirms the Tuesday evening address, aligning with longstanding scheduling norms.

State of the Union 2026 Time: What Time Is the State of the Union Address Tonight?

The State of the Union 2026 time is expected to begin at 9:00 p.m. ET.

Many viewers searching what time is the state of the union, state of the union time, or what time is state of the union can plan for a primetime broadcast slot. Historically, presidents begin speaking shortly after 9:00 p.m. ET, once formal introductions conclude.

For those specifically wondering what time is the state of the union address on Tuesday, coverage typically starts earlier in the evening, but the speech itself is slated for 9:00 p.m. ET.

The address usually runs between 60 and 90 minutes, depending on applause pauses and the scope of policy proposals presented.

Trump State of the Union 2026: What to Expect

The Trump State of the Union 2026 will mark a major political moment as Donald Trump outlines his administration’s legislative priorities for the year ahead.

The SOTU is constitutionally required under Article II, Section 3 of the U.S. Constitution, which states that the president shall periodically give Congress information on the state of the union. While early presidents delivered written messages, modern addresses have become nationally televised events.

This year’s address is expected to focus on:

• The U.S. economy and inflation trends

• Border security and immigration enforcement

• Foreign policy challenges

• Energy production and domestic manufacturing

• Federal spending and budget priorities

The speech will be delivered from the House chamber, with the vice president and the Speaker of the House seated behind the president.

State of the Union Address: How to Watch

The State of the Union address will be broadcast live across major television networks and streamed online. Radio coverage will also be widely available, including on public radio stations.

For viewers asking when is the state of the union address and how to access it, the event will be accessible through cable, satellite, streaming platforms, and radio.

Coverage typically includes:

• Pre-speech political analysis

• Live broadcast of the address

• The opposition party’s official response

• Post-speech policy breakdowns

The opposition response traditionally airs shortly after the president concludes remarks.

Why the State of the Union Matters in 2026

The State of the Union 2026 carries particular weight as lawmakers debate major legislation early in the year. Policy proposals outlined during the SOTU often set the agenda for congressional negotiations in the months ahead.

Markets and political observers closely monitor key policy signals delivered during the address. Statements on taxes, tariffs, federal programs, and international relations can influence economic expectations.

Public approval ratings often see short-term movement following a State of the Union address, depending on tone and reception. The event also provides an opportunity for the president to frame achievements and define challenges facing the nation.

As Tuesday approaches, searches for when is the state of the union 2026, state of the union 2026 time, and what time is the state of the union address tonight continue to trend.

With the State of the Union 2026 date and time confirmed for Tuesday at 9:00 p.m. ET, attention now turns to the content of the speech and how it may shape the political and economic landscape for the remainder of the year.