Trump delivers State of the Union address to Congress

U.S. President Donald Trump delivered a record-long State of the Union address marked by patriotic themes and sharp political messaging, using the speech to rally supporters and defend his policies ahead of the midterm elections later this year, the BBC reported.

In his address to Congress, Trump said the United States is «back,» calling it the «hottest» country in the world. He pointed to rising incomes, a stronger stock market, lower gas prices, fewer undocumented migrant crossings at the southern border and easing inflation as proof that «our country is winning again.»

The speech included several symbolic moments, such as honoring the U.S. Olympic men’s hockey team, military heroes, a 100-year-old World War II veteran and a Coast Guard swimmer who rescued 165 people during flooding in Texas. These moments reinforced the president’s theme of patriotism and national achievement.

Trump outlined retirement savings accounts for working-class Americans and a potential agreement with artificial intelligence companies to ensure a sufficient electricity supply. He also renewed calls for a healthcare plan offering direct payments to help cover insurance premiums, a law requiring proof of citizenship for voters and a ban on commercial driver’s licenses for undocumented migrants.s.

In addition, the president pledged to continue pursuing his tariff policy despite a recent Supreme Court decision striking down many of the duties he had previously imposed.

Addressing foreign policy, Trump referenced the U.S. military build-up near Iran and said he prefers diplomacy but will not allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon.