Trump to deliver State of the Union speech amid anxieties over Iran, tariffs and economy
France 24
by FRANCE 24February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
US President Donald Trump is set to deliver his State of the Union address amid growing domestic and international challenges. As his approval ratings decline and the November midterm elections approach, Trump faces political headwinds both at home and abroad. The speech comes after a week of turmoil for his administration, including a Supreme Court ruling that invalidated his global tariff regime and new economic data showing slowed growth and rising inflation. With his focus on domestic concerns like living costs and immigration policies, Trump aims to rally support for Republicans while addressing international tensions, particularly with Iran.
Domestically, Trump’s speech will likely emphasize his achievements in areas such as tax cuts and stock market gains, while downplaying the impact of economic challenges. He is expected to argue that Democrats have overstated affordability concerns and that he inherited a weak economy from his predecessor, Joe Biden. However, polls indicate voters remain skeptical about his claims to have controlled inflation and improved living standards.
Internationally, Trump appears to be escalating tensions with Iran, moving US warships to the Middle East and considering military intervention. His administration has also faced criticism for its handling of the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, which continues to overshadow his foreign policy agenda. Meanwhile, the ongoing shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security due to a dispute over immigration policies highlights the deepening divide between Republicans and Democrats.
The speech will also address Trump’s response to the Supreme Court’s tariff decision, with officials suggesting he plans to challenge the ruling and propose alternative measures to reinstate tariffs. This comes as Trump’s aggressive immigration tactics face growing opposition, with most Americans believing they have gone too far. Despite these challenges, the State of the Union provides Trump with a platform to shape public perception and promote his agenda.
For readers interested in global affairs, Trump’s speech offers insight into his administration’s priorities and strategies for navigating complex international relations. With tensions rising over Iran and domestic economic concerns persisting, the address will likely set
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Originally published on France 24 on 2/24/2026