Fact-checking Donald Trump’s State of the Union address

Al JazeeraEN 8 min read 100% complete by By PolitiFact Staff I PolitiFactFebruary 25, 2026 at 09:49 AM

AI Summary

long article 8 min

In his State of the Union address on February 24, 2026, President Donald Trump defended his economic record and immigration policies. The speech, delivered to a joint session of Congress in Washington, D.C., occurred amidst declining poll numbers before the midterm elections. Trump claimed successes in lowering inflation and gas prices, and justified his immigration agenda, despite criticism and recent incidents. The speech lacked discussion of the Russia-Ukraine war anniversary and the release of Jeffrey Epstein files. Dozens of Democrats boycotted the address, while a Democratic representative was removed for protesting Trump's social media activity. A moment of unity occurred when Trump recognized the Olympic gold-medal-winning men’s hockey team.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Barack Obama 30% Jeffrey Epstein ×240% Al Green 40% Russia-Ukraine war 50% House Chamber 50% United States Capitol 50% Republicans 60% Washington, DC 60% Democrats ×370% Congress 70% United States ×490% Donald Trump ×9100%

Keywords

state of the union 100% donald trump 90% fact-checking 80% economy 70% immigration 70% midterm elections 60% republican party 50% democratic party 50% russia-ukraine war 40% jeffrey epstein 40%