Does State of the Union Still Matter? | RealClearPolitics
RealClearPolitics
by Bevan, Cannon & Walworth, RCP on SiriusXMFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The State of the Union address remains a significant event in American politics, serving as a platform for the President to outline priorities, propose policies, and connect with the nation. However, questions about its relevance today are growing, particularly as media consumption habits evolve and political environments become more polarized. While the speech retains ceremonial importance and provides an opportunity for unity, its ability to influence public opinion or drive legislative agendas is increasingly scrutinized.
Historically, the State of the Union has been a defining moment for presidents to set the national agenda and rally support for their policies. For example, Ronald Reagan’s 1983 address on the Star Wars defense initiative helped solidify his vision and galvanized conservative voters. Similarly, Barack Obama’s addresses during his presidency were often used to push progressive narratives and build momentum for key legislation.
In recent years, however, the speech has
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Originally published on RealClearPolitics on 2/24/2026