President Donald Trump warned Iran against developing nuclear weapons and defended his economic record during the longest State of the Union address in U.S. history on Tuesday night.
Speaking before a joint session of Congress, Trump said he prefers a diplomatic solution with Tehran but vowed never to allow the country to obtain a nuclear bomb. He warned that further action remains an option if talks fail. His comments were part of a broader foreign policy message he described as "peace through strength."
The president’s speech lasted one hour and 48 minutes, exceeding previous records. He used the address to champion what he called a historic economic revival during his return to the White House. Trump pointed to easing mortgage rates and recent month-to-month declines in some grocery items, including beef and eggs, as evidence that his affordability agenda is working.
Official inflation data, however, shows grocery prices remain higher overall compared with a year ago. Government figures indicate beef and veal prices are up 15% annually despite a slight monthly dip. Coffee and frozen seafood have also risen significantly over the past 12 months, even as some items such as butter and tomatoes have fallen.
On trade, Trump defended his global tariff strategy despite a recent ruling by the Supreme Court of the United States that struck down several levies. He pledged to maintain tariffs through alternative legal avenues. Some trade partners have signaled uncertainty over pending agreements in response to the administration's approach.
Democrats sharply criticized the address. Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger, delivering her party’s official rebuttal, accused Trump of dishonesty and failing to offer meaningful solutions on costs, immigration and national security. She argued that Americans face a clear choice in November’s midterm elections between division and unity.
The president concluded his speech with an extended reflection on America’s upcoming 250th anniversary, casting his presidency as the start of a new "Golden Age."