State of the disunion

Published: Friday, February 20, 2026 at 10:15 am

State of the Union: A Tradition of Speeches and Spectacle

The annual State of the Union address, a constitutionally mandated presidential duty, has long been a stage for both policy pronouncements and political theater. From George Washington's concise 1790 address to the marathon speeches of modern presidents, the event has evolved, reflecting the changing political landscape.

The address, as outlined in the Constitution, requires the president to inform Congress about the state of the nation and recommend necessary measures. Over time, the format has shifted from written reports to televised speeches, with Woodrow Wilson breaking the mold in 1913 by delivering the address in person. The introduction of television in 1948 and the teleprompter in 1954 further shaped the event's presentation.

Historically, some addresses have marked pivotal moments. James Monroe's 1823 speech outlined the Monroe Doctrine, while James Polk's 1848 address sparked a gold rush. Abraham Lincoln's 1862 speech prepared the nation for the Civil War, and Franklin D. Roosevelt's 1941 address set the stage for World War II. However, not all addresses have been met with acclaim. Richard Nixon's 1974 speech, delivered amidst the Watergate scandal, and George W. Bush's 2002 address, which focused on Iraq's weapons of mass destruction, are examples of speeches that were later viewed with scrutiny.

The audience for the State of the Union has fluctuated over the years. While Bill Clinton's 1993 address drew a record 67 million viewers, recent addresses have seen a decline. The current president's addresses have been marked by a mix of self-congratulation and criticism of opponents. The upcoming address is expected to follow this pattern.

BNN's Perspective: The State of the Union address remains a significant event, offering a snapshot of the president's priorities and a reflection of the nation's political climate. While the event's theatrical elements and partisan divisions may detract from its substance, it continues to serve as a platform for presidential communication and a reminder of the enduring nature of American democracy.

Keywords: State of the Union, President, Address, Constitution, Congress, Politics, History, Speech, Television, Audience, Donald Trump, Joe Biden, Nancy Pelosi, Marjorie Taylor Greene, Barack Obama, Woodrow Wilson, James Monroe, James Polk, Abraham Lincoln, Franklin Roosevelt, Richard Nixon, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton.

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