The Take What to expect from Trump’s State of the Union address
10 snips
Feb 24, 2026 Amanda Becker, national reporter for The 19th covering politics, gender and LGBTQ issues, breaks down what to watch in Trump’s State of the Union. She previews foreign policy posturing, tariffs and legal battles. She explains Project 2025’s imprint on federal policy and details intensified immigration enforcement.
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Expect Aggressive Foreign Policy Posturing
- Expect aggressive foreign policy rhetoric in the State of the Union about Greenland and Iran.
- Amanda Becker highlights Trump's repeated memes about taking Greenland and talk of potential strikes or increased posturing toward Iran.
Tariff Ruling Triggered Confusion Not Relief
- The Supreme Court blocked Trump's emergency global tariffs but the administration quickly announced new tariffs anyway.
- Becker says the legal back-and-forth creates confusion for consumers and will prompt more legal challenges as the president switches mechanisms and rates (10% then 15%).
Justices' Faces Will Be Watched For Tension
- The presence of all nine Supreme Court justices at the State of the Union may create visible tension.
- Becker notes Trump publicly insulted justices after the tariff ruling, so cameras will focus on their faces for signs of reaction.