Trump Vows to Fight Back in High-Stakes State of the Union

WASHINGTON, (AFP):US President Donald Trump is set to defend his first year back in office during a crucial State of the Union address on Tuesday, as he faces mounting political pressure ahead of November’s midterm elections.

After a year marked by sweeping executive actions and global controversy, the 79-year-old Republican will deliver his flagship speech to Congress at a tense moment for his administration.

Recent setbacks — including declining approval ratings and a Supreme Court decision striking down his signature tariffs — have complicated his political standing. Speaking at the White House on Monday, Trump hinted at the scale of his address. “It’s going to be a long speech because we have so much to talk about,” he said, while dismissing recent polls showing his approval rating at 39% as “fake.”

The Supreme Court’s rejection of Trump’s tariff policy — a key pillar of his economic agenda — has fueled criticism from opponents and added drama to the speech, which he will deliver before the same justices he recently criticized. If Democrats regain control of either the House or Senate in November, they could significantly hinder Trump’s second-term agenda and potentially pursue another impeachment effort.

Democrats have already signaled protest plans. Some lawmakers intend to boycott the speech, while others are preparing silent demonstrations. Senator Tina Smith of Minnesota announced she would skip the event, accusing Trump of using such speeches to “spread lies.”The State of the Union address, mandated by the US Constitution, requires the president to periodically inform Congress about the nation’s condition.

Trump is expected to highlight what his administration describes as major progress on immigration, particularly a reduction in crossings at the US-Mexico border. However, critics point to controversial deportation raids earlier this year in which two US citizens were shot dead, sparking public backlash.

On the economy, Trump will promote his efforts to curb inflation and usher in what he calls a “Golden Age” of America. Yet many voters remain concerned about the rising cost of living, with some blaming economic instability on the tariff policies recently struck down by the Supreme Court.

International observers will closely watch for signals regarding US policy toward Iran. A significant US military build-up in the region has increased pressure on Tehran to negotiate a new nuclear agreement, raising speculation about possible military action.

Historically, State of the Union addresses have shaped foreign policy narratives — notably when former President George W. Bush used his 2003 speech to build support for the Iraq War. As tradition dictates, both parties will bring guests to the gallery to reinforce political messages.

Trump has invited the US men’s ice hockey team, celebrating their Olympic gold medal win — their first since 1980. However, media reports indicate that the women’s team declined an invitation.

Meanwhile, two Democratic representatives are expected to host family members of a victim linked to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, a scandal that continues to shadow Trump despite his repeated denials of any connection.

With domestic challenges mounting and foreign policy tensions simmering, Tuesday’s address could prove pivotal in shaping the political narrative heading into the midterm elections.