Politics
The Economist
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Donald Trump delivered a historic, record-breaking state-of-the-union speech to Congress, lasting one hour and 48 minutes—the longest ever. Despite claiming responsibility for a "golden age" in America, his approval ratings remain low, with voters expressing significant concern over rising living costs. The speech came shortly after the Supreme Court invalidated Trump's reciprocal tariffs on Canada, China, and Mexico, which were imposed to combat drug smuggling. The court ruled that these tariffs couldn't be justified under the emergency-powers act, as America is not at war with those nations. Trump expressed disappointment with the decision.
The tariffs in question were part of Trump's broader trade strategy, often targeting U.S. adversaries and allies alike. However, the Supreme Court's ruling highlights legal constraints on presidential authority to impose such measures without congressional approval. This decision underscores the complexities of balancing national security concerns with international trade relations. While Trump has frequently emphasized his achievements in areas like tariffs and economic policy, his administration has faced criticism for its handling of trade disputes.
For businesses, these developments are crucial as they impact international trade dynamics and relationships between major economies. The ruling may prompt a reevaluation of existing trade policies and could influence future negotiations. Additionally, the focus on economic concerns during Trump's speech reflects ongoing challenges in domestic policy, particularly regarding cost-of-living pressures and their implications for business operations and consumer behavior.
This matter is significant for readers interested in business as it ties into broader economic trends, trade relations, and the
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Originally published on The Economist on 2/26/2026