Trump’s State of the Union Address
What to Watch For Tonight
Source: CBC News • February 24, 2026 • Address begins 9:00 p.m. ET
Key Things to Watch
- The Supreme Court Dynamic — By tradition, justices sit front-row-centre in direct line of sight of the president. Given Trump’s angry reaction to the court striking down the bulk of his global tariffs last week, watch how he interacts with — or ignores — the justices.
- Tariff Fallout — Trump could use the speech to lay out more of his plan to impose new tariffs to replace those declared illegal, which he had levied on Canada, Mexico and other countries under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act.
- Sinking Approval Ratings — The address comes with Trump’s approval ratings declining heading into crucial midterm elections. On average, polls suggest 41% of U.S. voters approve of his overall performance, and just 35% approve of his handling of inflation.
- Cost of Living — Advisers say it’s crucial for Trump to address groceries, health care, and housing costs — the three areas Americans are most concerned about.
- 2020 Election Claims — Trump has repeatedly brought up his disproven claim that he won the 2020 election throughout his second term, no matter the occasion, so it’s considered a safe bet he’ll raise it tonight.
- Future Elections — Watch for what he says about upcoming elections. Concern is mounting that his administration is laying groundwork to interfere in the fall midterms, after Trump recently said Republicans should “take over” managing elections in at least 15 states.
- Iran — Foreign policy watchers will be scrutinizing the address for any sign of Trump’s intentions toward the Iranian regime.
