Trump to Highlight Economic and Security Gains in State of the Union Address

President Donald Trump will use Tuesday night’s State of the Union address to contrast the nation’s current trajectory with where it stood a year ago, according to Senator Roger Marshall.

The Kansas Republican stated that the president will focus on gains in border security, public safety, and economic growth. Marshall described “historically low murder rates” and strengthened immigration enforcement as key indicators the administration would emphasize. He also noted that Trump is expected to highlight U.S. military operations abroad, including missions in Iran and Venezuela, framing them as evidence of renewed American strength on the world stage.

On the economic front, Marshall cited rising real wages and easing costs for families. “Real wages are up 3% over the last six months,” he said, adding that wage growth has outpaced inflation. He also pointed to lower gas and electricity prices and declining interest rates as signs that the economy is stabilizing.

Marshall expressed support for Trump’s decision to reinstate a 15% global tariff following the Supreme Court’s ruling that invalidated the administration’s previous tariff framework. He noted he was “disappointed but not surprised” by the high court’s decision, stating the president had already implemented the new structure. Marshall argued the tariffs have delivered economic and national security benefits, including trade agreements with major partners such as India. He also claimed the policy has been used to encourage countries like India to shift energy purchases from Russia to the United States.

Additionally, he reported that manufacturing jobs are returning to Kansas due to the tariffs: “All over my state, I’m seeing manufacturing jobs move back to Kansas because of the tariffs overseas.”

By Brian Freeman | Monday, 23 February 2026 09:46 AM EST