https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/25/opinion/trump-state-of-the-union-best-worst.html
‘His Showman’s Energy Is Flagging’: The Best and Worst Moments From Trump’s State of the Union
Feb. 25, 2026
Barro The “everything is terrible in America” section — which lasted roughly from minute 30 through 75 of this interminable and plodding address — significantly undermined the “everything is wonderful in Trump’s America” messaging that preceded it.
Appelbaum When Roman emperors ran out of ideas, they promised bread and circuses. Trump’s speech was full of circuses, including a lengthy celebration of the U.S. men’s Olympic hockey team. But he’s no Roman emperor: He made a point of reminding the American people that his administration is providing a lot less food to the poor (having “lifted” 2.4 million people off food stamps).
Bouie What mattered as much as, if not more, than Trump’s speech was the performance of congressional Republicans, who have fully embraced the boorish aggression of the president, attacking and jeering their Democratic colleagues. And if I had to say anything to Democrats it would be, in the words of Ice Cube: Here’s what they think about you. Act accordingly.
Goldberg That the speech was hateful and mendacious goes without saying. But I was struck by how boring it was, despite all the reality television stunts. Trump has usually been good at capturing attention, but his showman’s energy is flagging.
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