President Donald Trump prepares to deliver historic State of the Union address from the US Capitol in Washington DC amid tensions with Iran and domestic political battles

Tonight at 9pm ET, all eyes will be on the US Capitol as President Donald Trump takes the stage for his fifth State of the Union address.

The speech promises to be long and comprehensive, covering topics ranging from the economy to national security, and even touching on international tensions with Iran.

Earlier today, Trump previewed parts of the address during a traditional off-the-record lunch with network anchors, giving a hint of the major points he plans to make, including warnings about Iran and promises of economic growth.

The Iran Standoff and the “Magic Words”

One of the more striking comments from Trump came during his lunch with journalists, when he referred to the “magic words” Iran has yet to say.

“[Iran] wants a deal more than I do, but they just can’t say the magic words, which is that they won’t build a bomb,” said Jonathan Karl.

CNN’s Jake Tapper confirmed that Trump’s remarks highlight an ongoing standoff between the U.S. and Tehran, with a massive military buildup looming and a potential strike hanging over the horizon.

Trump is expected to use the address to underline his administration’s stance on Iran while promoting what he calls the “strong, prosperous, and respected” U.S. economy as the country enters its 250th year.

Economic Promises and Technology Deals

In addition to foreign policy, Trump will discuss domestic economic achievements and plans.

He reportedly intends to advocate for a mix of corporate and personal tax cuts and highlight new deals with AI and technology companies to establish data centers, addressing concerns about local electricity use.

“Tonight’s pitch would be that the country is about to have the best three years economically in the nation’s history, and it’s already started,” Tapper said, summarizing the President’s preview.

Democratic Counterprogramming and Walk-Out Threats

Democrats are planning a strong counter-narrative to the address.

Abigail Spanberger will deliver the Democratic response from Colonial Williamsburg, tying historical American resistance to current political challenges.

Her response marks the fifth consecutive State of the Union rebuttal delivered by a female senator or governor.

Additionally, some Democratic lawmakers plan to stage walk-outs or participate in events like the “State of the Swamp,” featuring activists in frog costumes and public demonstrations on the National Mall.

Capitol Guests and Symbolic Moments

A number of symbolic gestures are planned for the audience.

The U.S. men’s hockey team, fresh off an Olympic gold medal, will attend, while Erika Kirk, widow of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, has been invited to highlight the President’s emphasis on faith and political violence prevention.

Speaker Mike Johnson joked that accommodations would be made to “squeeze in the hockey players tonight,” underscoring the ceremonial and celebratory aspects of the address.

Supreme Court and Controversial Figures

Trump will also face some high-profile attendees, including Supreme Court justices who recently ruled against his tariffs policy.

Meanwhile, embattled Texas Congressman Tony Gonzales remains in office despite scandal, and protests continue over the redacted Jeffrey Epstein files, with Democratic lawmakers wearing “Release the Files” pins.

Security and National Preparedness

In an unusual show of preparedness, the Air Force E-4B “Doomsday Plane” has arrived at Joint Base Andrews ahead of the speech, underscoring the high-security measures surrounding this high-profile event.

What’s Next?

The address is expected to dominate both cable and social media coverage tonight. Analysts will be watching:

• How Trump frames the Iran threat and military posture.

• Reactions from Democrats, including walk-outs and the Williamsburg response.

• Public perception of economic claims, tax cut proposals, and tech deals.

• Symbolic elements, like guests from Team USA hockey and Erika Kirk, which may resonate with voters ahead of the November midterms.

The coming hours could set the tone for Trump’s agenda and influence the political landscape for months to come.

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Summary

President Donald Trump will deliver his fifth State of the Union from the U.S. Capitol tonight at 9pm ET, promising a lengthy address covering economic growth, foreign policy, and national security.

He highlighted Iran’s refusal to commit to not building nuclear weapons, announced plans for tax cuts and tech deals, and emphasized the country’s economic strength.

Democrats are planning counterprogramming, including walk-outs and a response by Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger.

Symbolic guests like the U.S. men’s hockey team and Erika Kirk will attend, while security measures are heightened with the arrival of the E-4B “Doomsday Plane.”

The speech is poised to set the stage for Trump’s political agenda and influence the midterm elections.