Trump to address a changed America at vital moment for his presidency
BBC World
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Donald Trump’s upcoming State of the Union address is a pivotal moment for his presidency as he seeks to rally support ahead of the November midterm elections. With approval ratings at an all-time low—36% according to recent polls—and facing significant opposition from key institutions and the public, Trump must use this speech to reassert his agenda and shore up his political base. His second-term agenda has been marked by aggressive actions, including crackdowns on illegal immigration, challenging the balance of powers, and reshaping the role of the presidency. However, these moves have proven highly divisive, with many Americans feeling he has overstepped.
Trump’s decision to deploy federal immigration agents to cities like Minneapolis has drawn criticism from those who believe his approach is excessive. Similarly, his trade policies, including high tariffs on major partners, have failed to gain widespread support. Despite these challenges, Trump remains confident about the state of the economy and plans to highlight his achievements in a lengthy speech. His strategy typically involves boasting about accomplishments while attacking critics, a tactic that has been less effective in broadening his appeal.
This State of the Union address is Trump’s last major opportunity before the elections to make his case directly to the American public. It will be closely watched not just for its content but also as a potential turning point in his presidency. The speech could either energize his base or further alienate swing voters, with implications for both his re-election chances and the broader political landscape.
The significance of this moment extends beyond Trump’s presidency, offering insight into the ongoing tensions within American politics. As the nation approaches critical decisions on immigration, trade policies, and the balance of power, the outcome of Trump’s speech could shape the trajectory of these issues
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/24/2026