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Trump's State of the Union: Tensions and Tradition Unite

2/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

The State of the Union remains highly charged as U.S. President Donald Trump prepares to deliver the address at 9 p.m. ET.
The tradition traces back to George Washington's brief report in 1790.
Recent addresses have featured confrontations, including Representative Joe Wilson's interruption of Obama's speech and Speaker Nancy Pelosi tearing up Trump's remarks.
Historically, these speeches have shaped U.S. policy, with landmark declarations from presidents like Roosevelt and Johnson.

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Story summary

The State of the Union remains highly charged as U.S. President Donald Trump prepares to deliver the address at 9 p.m. ET.
The tradition traces back to George Washington's brief report in 1790.
Recent addresses have featured confrontations, including Representative Joe Wilson's interruption of Obama's speech and Speaker Nancy Pelosi tearing up Trump's remarks.
Historically, these speeches have shaped U.S. policy, with landmark declarations from presidents like Roosevelt and Johnson.