Trump Delivers Longest State of the Union Address in US History Highlighting Economy, Iran, and Political Divides
US President Donald Trump delivered the longest State of the Union address in US history on Tuesday, speaking for one hour and 47 minutes in front of Congress during his first address of his second term. The speech spanned topics including the economy, international tensions with Iran, and political divisions at home.
The address began with a tense moment for the Supreme Court, as Trump shook hands with justices who had recently struck down his global tariff policies. He described the ruling as “very unfortunate,” but emphasized that his administration was already exploring legal avenues to maintain the duties.
Amid a politically divided audience, a rare moment of unity occurred when the US men’s Olympic hockey team, fresh off winning gold for the first time in 46 years, entered the chamber. The audience rose in unison, chanting “USA! USA!” to honor the athletes’ achievement.
Democratic resistance was visible throughout the speech, with dozens of lawmakers skipping the address entirely and others staying seated in silent protest. Some wore white to commemorate the suffragette movement, while others displayed pins calling for accountability for individuals linked to the Jeffrey Epstein files. One dramatic incident involved Democratic Representative Al Green, who was expelled after holding up a sign denouncing a racist video involving the Obamas.
Tensions further escalated when Representative Ilhan Omar interrupted the president, shouting accusations regarding the deaths of two Minneapolis protesters at the hands of federal agents. Omar later exited the chamber before the speech concluded.
Trump’s address set a new record, surpassing the previous longest State of the Union delivered by Bill Clinton in 2000, which lasted one hour and 20 minutes. It also exceeded Trump’s own address to Congress last year, which lasted one hour and 40 minutes.
The speech highlighted both the ambitions and controversies of Trump’s second term, combining policy announcements, political showmanship, and moments of public recognition.
