President Trump’s State-of-the-Union Variety Show
The Atlantic
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
President Donald Trump’s recent State of the Union address broke records as the longest in modern history, but it was less about substance and more about spectacle. Instead of focusing on key policy issues, Trump turned the event into a entertainment variety show filled with guest appearances, applause cues, and over-the-top performances. The speech, which lasted far longer than Reagan’s 31-minute record, showcased Trump’s role as a master of ceremonies rather than a communicator of important policies. While he included familiar talking points about the economy and tariffs, much of his time was spent entertaining the audience with dramatic stories, medal presentations, and even a moment where he playfully treated military honors like prizes on a game show.
One of the most notable aspects of the event was Trump’s use of guest stars and special appearances to create an atmosphere of spectacle. He surprised the audience by announcing that hockey player Connor Hellebuyck would receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, despite the honor typically being awarded for lifetime achievements. Similarly, he recognized individuals like Erica Kirk, a widow of a murdered activist, and Enrique Marquez, a Venezuelan political prisoner freed after U.S. intervention. These moments were clearly designed to evoke emotional responses and applause from Republicans in attendance. The military received particularly elaborate treatment, with Trump handing out multiple medals, including two Congressional
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Originally published on The Atlantic on 2/25/2026