US President Donald Trump will address Congress at 9 PM ET (7:30 AM IST), delivering his annual State of the Union amid political strain at home and tension abroad.
After one year in office, Trump has reshaped US policy through rapid executive action. According to Reuters, he has signed 240 executive orders in 13 months, which is the most in a similar period since Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Congress under pressure
Lawmakers will gather in the House chamber as Trump outlines his plans. Critics say Congress has been sidelined. Supporters argue he has delivered on promises quickly. His biggest legislative win is a sweeping tax cut law. It reduces individual taxes, creates savings accounts for infants, and cuts Medicaid and SNAP. It also sets aside over $170 billion for immigration enforcement, as per The Indian Express.
Economy and tariffs
President Trump is expected to defend his economic record. Polls show many Americans remain unhappy with inflation. Tariffs have defined his second term. After the Supreme Court blocked his use of emergency powers for import taxes, he imposed a 10 per cent global tariff for 150 days and threatened to raise it to 15 per cent. He also backs the 'One Big Beautiful Bill Act' and has pushed the Federal Reserve to cut rates. Unemployment has risen under him, The Indian Express reported.
Foreign policy: Iran and Ukraine
Tensions with Iran are rising. Trump has increased US military presence in the Middle East and warned Tehran of consequences if nuclear talks fail. He may frame himself as either a peacemaker or a strong leader preventing war.
The day also marks four years since Russia invaded Ukraine. Trump had promised to end the war quickly. Talks continue, but disputes remain. He has previously pressed President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to compromise.
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Immigration and executive power
Immigration remains central. Deportation raids have increased, and border crossings have fallen. But protests and legal challenges continue, says The Indian Express.
Trump has withdrawn from global agreements, including the Paris Agreement, and reversed climate rules. He has also issued pardons linked to the January 6 Capitol attack at the United States Capitol.
The address comes as America approaches its 250th anniversary, amid deep political divides and major policy shifts.
