Trump plans to take his State of the Union message on the road — eventually - AP News
AP News
February 25, 2026
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President Donald Trump is exploring the idea of delivering parts of his upcoming State of the Union address outside of Washington, D.C., potentially in battleground states. This unconventional approach aims to connect directly with voters and highlight economic achievements, marking a shift from traditional formats. While no specific details have been finalized, Trump's communication style often emphasizes direct engagement.
Historically, State of the Union addresses are delivered on Capitol Hill before a joint session of Congress. However, Trump has previously hinted at an "unorthodox" approach to his speech. This idea is reminiscent of past presidents who conducted "listening tours" or town halls but remains untested under Trump's tenure. The White House has acknowledged the concept without providing concrete plans.
This strategy could allow Trump to bypass political polarization and showcase his policies in key regions, potentially influencing public perception ahead of critical elections. Observers note that such a move would reflect Trump's focus on communication as a tool for political influence, aligning with his broader outreach efforts beyond traditional media.
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Originally published on AP News on 2/25/2026