The Debate - Loosening grip? Trump skirts setbacks in State of the Union speech
France 24
by François PICARDFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
In his longest-ever State of the Union address, Donald Trump sought to dispel doubts about his political stamina by delivering a combative and scripted speech lasting an hour and 47 minutes. Trump doubled down on his signature tough-guy image, attacking immigrants, Iran, Democrats, and even the Supreme Court for its ruling striking down his tariffs. This speech came as Trump faces growing challenges, including midterm elections that could further constrain his political influence. By vowing to expand tariffs—potentially replacing income taxes—and bypassing Congress, Trump is testing traditional norms of governance.
The address highlighted Trump’s unyielding approach to foreign policy and domestic politics. He criticized “illegal immigrants,” blamed Iran for regional instability, and accused Democrats of failing to protect American sovereignty. The Supreme Court’s ruling on tariffs, which curtailed his use of executive powers, appeared to fuel Trump’s determination to push back against institutional constraints. This reflects a broader pattern of Trump’s presidency, where he has increasingly relied on executive actions to advance his agenda.
Trump’s approach raises questions about the boundaries between public policy and personal interest. His focus on tariffs, despite their economic and diplomatic consequences, underscores his willingness to prioritize political gains over traditional governance norms. As midterm elections loom, Trump’s strategy of “attack, attack, attack” appears unlikely to change, potentially heightening tensions with opponents and further polarizing the political landscape.
Internationally, Trump’s speech has sparked mixed reactions. Allies and adversaries alike are watching closely as his administration continues to challenge conventional外交和经济 practices. The implications for global trade relations, U.S. domestic stability, and international leadership dynamics will likely be a key focus in the coming months. For readers interested in world affairs, this moment highlights the ongoing tension between unilateralism and collaborative governance under Trump’s leadership.
In summary, Trump’s State of the Union speech signals his intent to maintain a combative and assertive approach despite setbacks. His reliance on tariffs, criticism of opponents, and disregard for institutional restraints underscore a presidency defined
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Originally published on France 24 on 2/25/2026