Donald Trump’s State of the Union Was Long and Wrong

The New Yorker

by Susan B. Glasser

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Donald Trump delivered a record-breaking State of the Union address that clocked in at 108 minutes, surpassing his own previous longest speech. Despite its length, the speech lacked substance, focusing on boasts rather than addressing key issues like rising living costs or the Iran nuclear deal. Trump's claims of success were met with skepticism, as evidenced by his historically low approval ratings. The address was notable for its lack of concrete policies and instead highlighted a series of unsupported achievements. Trump bragged about the nation's supposed prosperity, dismissing concerns about affordability as "a dirty, rotten lie." His speech also included vague threats of potential conflict with Iran but offered no clear strategy or evidence to support his claims. Additionally, he defended his tariffs despite a Supreme Court ruling that challenged their legality, relying on alternative executive powers without providing specifics. Culturally, Trump's communication style has significant implications. His tendency to use hyperbole and repetition alienates audiences, particularly those who view him as disconnected from their concerns. The speech reflects a broader pattern of his leadership—prioritizing rhetoric over results. This approach not only undermines his credibility but also raises questions about the effectiveness of leadership in addressing national challenges. As Trump's disapproval ratings remain high, his inability to deliver persuasive and substantive messages underscores the importance of clear, evidence-based communication in governance.

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Originally published on The New Yorker on 2/25/2026