Trump’s State of the Union: An Aggressive Rally-Style Address Ahead of Critical Midterms

President Donald Trump is expected to deliver an aggressive and politically charged State of the Union address on Tuesday, focusing on his administration’s accomplishments while confronting legal and economic issues that could shape the upcoming midterm elections, said Matt Schlapp, chairman of the American Conservative Union.

Schlapp noted Trump “always knows what he wants to say” and predicted the president would emphasize “dozens and dozens” of achievements. He also identified the administration’s latest tariff actions as a central theme of the speech.

The recent tariff measures have sparked debate among legal experts and lawmakers, with critics questioning their statutory basis. Schlapp described the policies as “very legally controversial,” adding that every lawyer he consulted held differing opinions on the matter.

Beyond trade, Schlapp stressed Trump’s awareness that voter perceptions of economic affordability—particularly among middle-class Americans—will determine midterm outcomes. “He knows this whole question of affordability and kind of the middle-class take on the economy will determine the midterms,” Schlapp said. “And he wants to win that debate.”

Schlapp warned Republicans face a competitive electoral map, noting that if Democrats regain control of Congress, it would complicate Trump’s legislative agenda and judicial nominations, potentially triggering impeachment. He added: “If they [Republicans] lose the midterms, they don’t get a Supreme Court pick they want, and he will be impeached. It’s a guarantee.”

The State of the Union address is unfolding amid reports that some Democrat lawmakers plan to boycott it. Schlapp criticized protest tactics like coordinated outfit colors worn by female lawmakers during past joint sessions of Congress, stating: “It’s all about their clothing,” while arguing policy issues should receive greater focus.

Despite political tensions, Schlapp predicted Trump would adopt a rally-like approach for the speech, blending traditional State of the Union themes with campaign rhetoric. “He will be a little bit rally-ish because he always talks to people in terms of his political successes,” Schlapp said. “But I think he’s going to be aggressive—more aggressive than other presidents.”

The address is expected to serve as a defining moment for the administration ahead of the high-stakes election season.