US President Donald Trump didn't mention China in his annual speech to Congress, despite Tuesday's address being the longest ever speech made in modern history. The more than two-hour-long speech at the US Capitol had mentions of domestic issues, and the economy with the US is "bigger, better, richer and stronger than ever before." But it did not feature China, which had been mentioned in many of the annual presidential speeches Congress gave by former Presidents Joe Biden, Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and even by Trump himself in his first term.The last time any President skipped China from their congressional speech was in 2005 when Bush was president. Tuesday's address, however, did include a passing reference to the world's second-largest economy. While addressing the Venezuela operation and honouring Army helicopter pilot Eric Slover, Trump mentioned that Chinese military technology was used by Nicolas Maduro to fortify his compound.“Eric steered the Chinook under the cover of night and descended swiftly upon Maduros’ heavily protected military fortress,” said Trump, “This was a major military installation protected by thousands of soldiers and guarded by Russian and Chinese military technology.”Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-survivors-trump-sotu-2026-democrats-spotlight-files-1772018500725">Epstein survivors attend Trump’s State of the Union address 2026 as Democrats Spotlight Files</a><h2>Why is the omission of China significant?</h2>Trump said that the nation was in crisis, with a "stagnant economy", high inflation and rampant crime, with "war and chaos all over the world." But just within one year, Trump has said that the US has entered the “golden age". However, the silence followed a volatile year of trade war with Trump imposing tariffs as high as 145 per cent.&nbsp;Now, omission of China reflects caution from one of the most "rash" Presidents in US history. It is a silent acceptance of China's growing economic might. Trump didn't want to pick a fight with China, as he is scheduled to visit Beijing in April. “Trump doesn’t want to pick a fight with China in an election year,” said Gabriel Wildau, managing director, Teneo, referring to the upcoming mid-term election. China is yet to confirm the exact dates of the visit of the US President; however, according to White House, it is scheduled for March 31-April 2.

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US President Donald Trump didn't mention China in his annual speech to Congress, despite Tuesday's address being the longest ever speech made in modern history. The more than two-hour-long speech at the US Capitol had mentions of domestic issues, and the economy with the US is "bigger, better, richer and stronger than ever before." But it did not feature China, which had been mentioned in many of the annual presidential speeches Congress gave by former Presidents Joe Biden, Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and even by Trump himself in his first term. The last time any President skipped China from their congressional speech was in 2005 when Bush was president. Tuesday's address, however, did include a passing reference to the world's second-largest economy. While addressing the Venezuela operation and honouring Army helicopter pilot Eric Slover, Trump mentioned that Chinese military technology was used by Nicolas Maduro to fortify his compound. “Eric steered the Chinook under the cover of night and descended swiftly upon Maduros’ heavily protected military fortress,” said Trump, “This was a major military installation protected by thousands of soldiers and guarded by Russian and Chinese military technology.” Also Read: Epstein survivors attend Trump’s State of the Union address 2026 as Democrats Spotlight Files Why is the omission of China significant? Trump said that the nation was in crisis, with a "stagnant economy", high inflation and rampant crime, with "war and chaos all over the world." But just within one year, Trump has said that the US has entered the “golden age". However, the silence followed a volatile year of trade war with Trump imposing tariffs as high as 145 per cent. Now, omission of China reflects caution from one of the most "rash" Presidents in US history. It is a silent acceptance of China's growing economic might. Trump didn't want to pick a fight with China, as he is scheduled to visit Beijing in April. “Trump doesn’t want to pick a fight with China in an election year,” said Gabriel Wildau, managing director, Teneo, referring to the upcoming mid-term election. China is yet to confirm the exact dates of the visit of the US President; however, according to White House, it is scheduled for March 31-April 2.

Donald Trump delivered the longest State of the Union address on record, but notably avoided mentioning China — a rare omission ahead of his planned Beijing visit.

Trump’s 2026 State of the Union address skips China, first time since 2005

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Feb 24) delivered his address at the State of the Union of his second term to a joint session of Congress in the House Chamber of the United States Capitol. During his 1-hour 48-minute-long speech, the Republican leader touted the “golden age” of America as he talked about several topics, ranging from the crackdown on drug smuggling in the US and illegal immigrants, low mortgage rates, and a massive surge in investments.Trump urged Congress to pass the ‘Delilah law’ that bars illegal immigrants from getting commercial driver’s licences, and repeat US policy will not allow Iran to pursue ‘sinister ambitions’ of nuclear weapons. He also did not forget to slam his predecessor, Joe Biden, and the Democrats in the longest State of the Union speech. The US president even reiterated his claims on ending eight so-called wars during his term in office and went as far as suggesting a third term. However, he steer cleared of pressing issues that matter to millions of Americans.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/did-trump-end-8-conflicts-in-10-months-fact-check-on-us-president-s-big-war-claims-1772009434708">Did Trump end 8 conflicts in 10 months? WION fact-check on US president’s BIG war claims</a>Here are some key issues Trump did not mention in his speech:<h2>Epstein files</h2>Trump did not mention the Jeffrey Epstein files even once during his address to Congress. Despite the issue dominating the headlines for months after the Department of Justice released millions of files on an investigation into the crimes of the late sex offender and his associates, Trump decided to ignore the matter. The US president, who has been accused of allegedly raping minors and having ties with Epstein, did not pay heed to the survivors of Epstein, who were witnessing his speech in the Capitol and demanded the transparent release of files. Meanwhile, reports have suggested that several documents related to the probe are still missing from the released batch of files from the DOJ.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-pak-pm-would-ve-died-if-not-for-me-trump-reiterates-claim-of-ending-india-pakistan-war-1771990679386">Did Trump say ‘Pak PM would’ve died if not for me’ during India-Pakistan war?</a><h2>Renee Good’s killing</h2>In his speech, the Republican did not mention the killing of Renee Nicole Good, a 37-year-old mother of three and a US citizen, who was shot dead in her car by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer in Minneapolis during a protest against federal agents’ deployment as part of Trump’s immigration crackdown. While the Trump administration labelled her a threat and called the incident an act of self-defence, videos shared on social media raised doubts about their justification. Notably, Trump did mention his immigration stance. He once again defended his administration’s crackdown against illegal immigration, giving a list of crimes committed by “illegal aliens” – at least one of which was a false claim.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-are-not-playing-games-trump-pushes-dalilah-law-barring-illegal-aliens-from-getting-commercial-driver-s-license-1771990239097">‘We are not playing games’: Trump pushes ‘Dalilah Law’ barring illegal aliens from getting commercial driver’s license</a><h2>Alex Pretti’s death</h2>In a similar anti-ICE protest, Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care nurse, was shot several times by two US Customs and Border Protection agents in Minnesota. The Trump administration defended the killing by saying that Pretti was armed and dangerous, but the videos shared on social media by bystanders showed him shielding other protesters from the federal agents, who were pushing and pepper-spraying them. The shooting has sparked outrage among the public as none of the videos shared online showed Pretti wielding a weapon. Trump did not mention this incident in his lengthy speech as well.<h2>Nancy Guthrie’s abduction</h2>Another pressing issue of the abduction of NBC broadcaster Savannah Guthrie’s mother was not present in Trump’s speech at the State of the Union. The 84-year-old was taken from her Arizona home. She was last seen at her residence on January 31 and was reported missing by her family at approximately noon the next day, after she didn’t show up to her regular church service, according to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department. Guthrie’s disappearance has gained national and international attention as investigators race to locate her and catch her kidnappers. However, while Trump initially showed concern about the kidnapping, he suggested last week that to move on from the subject.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-abducted-by-aliens-cantonese-opera-questions-mysterious-disappearance-of-ufo-files-1772016140272">Trump abducted by aliens? Cantonese opera questions mysterious disappearance of UFO files</a>On Thursday (Feb 19), Trump told reporters, “We have to start reporting on other subjects also and see what happens. It’s a very sad situation.”“I didn’t like when they were talking about they’re going after the pacemaker. Before they even started going after it, they’re coming and reporting it. If, in fact, they could do it that way, the person would say, ‘Well, I'm not gonna let that happen,’ right? So bad things would happen and he’s not going to let that happen,” Trump had said.

In a marathon State of the Union, Trump praised his agenda and attacked rivals — but several high-profile controversies and sensitive issues were notably absent from his address.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Feb 24) delivered his address at the State of the Union of his second term to a joint session of Congress in the House Chamber of the United States Capitol. During his 1-hour 48-minute-long speech, the Republican leader touted the “golden age” of America as he talked about several topics, ranging from the crackdown on drug smuggling in the US and illegal immigrants, low mortgage rates, and a massive surge in investments. Trump urged Congress to pass the ‘Delilah law’ that bars illegal immigrants from getting commercial driver’s licences, and repeat US policy will not allow Iran to pursue ‘sinister ambitions’ of nuclear weapons. He also did not forget to slam his predecessor, Joe Biden, and the Democrats in the longest State of the Union speech. The US president even reiterated his claims on ending eight so-called wars during his term in office and went as far as suggesting a third term. However, he steer cleared of pressing issues that matter to millions of Americans. Also read | Did Trump end 8 conflicts in 10 months? WION fact-check on US president’s BIG war claims Here are some key issues Trump did not mention in his speech: Epstein files Trump did not mention the Jeffrey Epstein files even once during his address to Congress. Despite the issue dominating the headlines for months after the Department of Justice released millions of files on an investigation into the crimes of the late sex offender and his associates, Trump decided to ignore the matter. The US president, who has been accused of allegedly raping minors and having ties with Epstein, did not pay heed to the survivors of Epstein, who were witnessing his speech in the Capitol and demanded the transparent release of files. Meanwhile, reports have suggested that several documents related to the probe are still missing from the released batch of files from the DOJ. Also read | Did Trump say ‘Pak PM would’ve died if not for me’ during India-Pakistan war? Renee Good’s killing In his speech, the Republican did not mention the killing of Renee Nicole Good, a 37-year-old mother of three and a US citizen, who was shot dead in her car by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer in Minneapolis during a protest against federal agents’ deployment as part of Trump’s immigration crackdown. While the Trump administration labelled her a threat and called the incident an act of self-defence, videos shared on social media raised doubts about their justification. Notably, Trump did mention his immigration stance. He once again defended his administration’s crackdown against illegal immigration, giving a list of crimes committed by “illegal aliens” – at least one of which was a false claim. Also read | ‘We are not playing games’: Trump pushes ‘Dalilah Law’ barring illegal aliens from getting commercial driver’s license Alex Pretti’s death In a similar anti-ICE protest, Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care nurse, was shot several times by two US Customs and Border Protection agents in Minnesota. The Trump administration defended the killing by saying that Pretti was armed and dangerous, but the videos shared on social media by bystanders showed him shielding other protesters from the federal agents, who were pushing and pepper-spraying them. The shooting has sparked outrage among the public as none of the videos shared online showed Pretti wielding a weapon. Trump did not mention this incident in his lengthy speech as well. Nancy Guthrie’s abduction Another pressing issue of the abduction of NBC broadcaster Savannah Guthrie’s mother was not present in Trump’s speech at the State of the Union. The 84-year-old was taken from her Arizona home. She was last seen at her residence on January 31 and was reported missing by her family at approximately noon the next day, after she didn’t show up to her regular church service, according to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department. Guthrie’s disappearance has gained national and international attention as investigators race to locate her and catch her kidnappers. However, while Trump initially showed concern about the kidnapping, he suggested last week that to move on from the subject. Also read | Trump abducted by aliens? Cantonese opera questions mysterious disappearance of UFO files On Thursday (Feb 19), Trump told reporters, “We have to start reporting on other subjects also and see what happens. It’s a very sad situation.” “I didn’t like when they were talking about they’re going after the pacemaker. Before they even started going after it, they’re coming and reporting it. If, in fact, they could do it that way, the person would say, ‘Well, I'm not gonna let that happen,’ right? So bad things would happen and he’s not going to let that happen,” Trump had said.

In a marathon State of the Union, Trump praised his agenda and attacked rivals — but several high-profile controversies and sensitive issues were notably absent from his address.

From Epstein files to ICE shootings: Trump omitted THESE explosive issues from his nearly 2 hrs SOTU speech

Victims of the paedophile Jeffrey Epstein were among the hundreds of guests watching the US President Donald Trump's State of the Union address. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer invited at least a dozen of the Epstein survivors to attend the US Presdint's joint congressional address. This includes the family of Virginia Giuffre, who died by suicide in 2025. This is to draw attention to the disgraced sex-trafficker and his relation to Donald Trump. &nbsp;Representative Jamie Raskin of Maryland and Suhas Subramanyam of Virginia invited Sky and Amanda Roberts, the brother and sister-in-law of the late Virginia Roberts Giuffre. They were watching the speech from the gallery overlooking the floor. A seat in the chamber was left open for Giuffre, who died by suicide last year. Robert Garcia, a Democrat from California, invited Annie Farmer, who has testified in court about how she was abused by Jeffrey Epstein and his accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell.Democratic lawmaker Ro Khanna, one of the authors of the Epstein Transparency Act, invited Haley Robson, an Epstein survivor who was trafficked to Epstein's guests while she was 16. “Haley’s courageous fight is proof that this isn’t about politics, it’s about exposing America’s two-tiered system of justice and bringing accountability to the Epstein class involved in the horrific abuse of young girls," said Ro Khanna.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democrats-boycott-trump-sotu-2026-peoples-state-of-the-union-1772012685997">Democrats hold alternate events during Trump's State of Union address</a>Epstein survivors have been critical of the Trump administration's handling of the Epstein files. While some have accused the Department of Justice of deliberately withholding information and not doing enough to prosecute potential accomplices of Epstein. While some have also charged the Justice Department with violating their rights by failing to redact their names from the files.&nbsp;“Trump campaigned on releasing the files, but now, one year into his presidency, he calls them a hoax. Shame on him. He says the American people need to move on,” said Schumer at a press conference on Tuesday. Schumer, looking at the survivors sitting behind him, said, “We're not moving on, are we? … When President Trump looks into the crowd tonight to give his speech, he will also look into the faces of the survivors behind me."&nbsp;

Democratic lawmakers invited almost a dozen Epstein survivors and their families to Trump's State of the Union address as they try to keep the spotlight on Epstein files. 

Victims of the paedophile Jeffrey Epstein were among the hundreds of guests watching the US President Donald Trump's State of the Union address. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer invited at least a dozen of the Epstein survivors to attend the US Presdint's joint congressional address. This includes the family of Virginia Giuffre, who died by suicide in 2025. This is to draw attention to the disgraced sex-trafficker and his relation to Donald Trump. Representative Jamie Raskin of Maryland and Suhas Subramanyam of Virginia invited Sky and Amanda Roberts, the brother and sister-in-law of the late Virginia Roberts Giuffre. They were watching the speech from the gallery overlooking the floor. A seat in the chamber was left open for Giuffre, who died by suicide last year. Robert Garcia, a Democrat from California, invited Annie Farmer, who has testified in court about how she was abused by Jeffrey Epstein and his accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell. Democratic lawmaker Ro Khanna, one of the authors of the Epstein Transparency Act, invited Haley Robson, an Epstein survivor who was trafficked to Epstein's guests while she was 16. “Haley’s courageous fight is proof that this isn’t about politics, it’s about exposing America’s two-tiered system of justice and bringing accountability to the Epstein class involved in the horrific abuse of young girls," said Ro Khanna. Also Read: Democrats hold alternate events during Trump's State of Union address Epstein survivors have been critical of the Trump administration's handling of the Epstein files. While some have accused the Department of Justice of deliberately withholding information and not doing enough to prosecute potential accomplices of Epstein. While some have also charged the Justice Department with violating their rights by failing to redact their names from the files. “Trump campaigned on releasing the files, but now, one year into his presidency, he calls them a hoax. Shame on him. He says the American people need to move on,” said Schumer at a press conference on Tuesday. Schumer, looking at the survivors sitting behind him, said, “We're not moving on, are we? … When President Trump looks into the crowd tonight to give his speech, he will also look into the faces of the survivors behind me."

Democratic lawmakers invited almost a dozen Epstein survivors and their families to Trump's State of the Union address as they try to keep the spotlight on Epstein files.&nbsp;

Epstein survivors attend Trump’s State of the Union address 2026 as Democrats Spotlight Files

President Donald Trump, during his State of the Union on Tuesday (Feb 24), slipped in the mention of a "third term" in his State of the Union address. The POTUS, while discussing his administration's achievements, quipped, "In my first year of my second term — should be my third term, but hey...," a clear reference to his repeated claims that the 2020 US Presidential Election win was "stolen" from him.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/claim-vs-fact-breaking-down-trump-s-state-of-the-union-2026-speech-full-fact-check-1772001873739">Claim vs fact: Breaking down Trump’s State of the Union 2026 speech - Full fact-check</a><h2>Did Trump mention running for election in 2028?</h2>No, while the US President has previously made multiple statements on his desire to run for president in 2028, he did not mention that in his SOTU speech. Instead, he joked about whether he should consider his current term second or third. "Are we going to be considered second term or third term...?" he asked.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🇺🇸 Trump: &quot;So in my first year of the second term... should be my third term, but strange things happen.&quot;<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StateOfTheUnionAddress?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StateOfTheUnionAddress</a> <a href="https://t.co/CZGgBzAKgK">pic.twitter.com/CZGgBzAKgK</a>&mdash; Abhimanyu Manjhi (@AbhimanyuManjh5) <a href="https://twitter.com/AbhimanyuManjh5/status/2026501337601683716?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Despite the US Constitution's strict limit on presidential terms, Trump has often dropped hints—sometimes in jest, sometimes provocatively—about extending his stay in the White House.&nbsp;In January 2025, speaking in Miami, Florida, at an event for GOP Members of the US Congress, the Republican president seemed to toy with the idea of a third term and commented that he was "not 100 per cent sure" if he was barred from running again. &nbsp;A year later, in January 2026, while kicking off a new round of rallies ahead of the upcoming November Midterms, he returned to a familiar provocation, joking about running for a constitutionally barred third term. “Should we do it a fourth time?” he asked, referring to his false claim that he won the 2020 election. Protesters interrupted the speech at least twice. Trump waved them off as “sickos” and “paid insurrectionists.” Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/abigail-spanberger-accuses-trump-admin-of-unprecedented-corruption-in-democratic-response-to-state-of-the-union-address-1771999146454">Abigail Spanberger accuses Trump admin of 'unprecedented corruption' in Democratic response to State of the Union address</a>Before that, during a rally in Nevada, he said, "It will be the greatest honour in my life to serve not once, but twice -- or three times or four times," followed by a laugh and cheers from his supporters.<h2>What does the US Constitution say about third presidential term?</h2>The US Constitution stipulates 'Term Limits for the Presidency' and strictly limits presidents to two terms. The 22nd Amendment to the US Constitution says, "No person shall be elected to the Office of the President more than twice". The amendment was ratified in 1951 in response to Franklin D. Roosevelt's unprecedented four-term presidency during the mid-20th century.&nbsp;<h2>Can Trump defy the US Constitution?</h2>As per ABC News, even if Trump tries to defy the constitutional rules, he would almost certainly be universally rebuffed by the courts and election officials. &nbsp;

Did President Donald Trump just hint at a third term during his State of the Union? A brief remark about his “second term” quickly grabbed attention and reignited debate.

What exactly did he say, and what does it mean? Scroll down to read more.


President Donald Trump, during his State of the Union on Tuesday (Feb 24), slipped in the mention of a "third term" in his State of the Union address. The POTUS, while discussing his administration's achievements, quipped, "In my first year of my second term — should be my third term, but hey...," a clear reference to his repeated claims that the 2020 US Presidential Election win was "stolen" from him. Also read | Claim vs fact: Breaking down Trump’s State of the Union 2026 speech - Full fact-check Did Trump mention running for election in 2028? No, while the US President has previously made multiple statements on his desire to run for president in 2028, he did not mention that in his SOTU speech. Instead, he joked about whether he should consider his current term second or third. "Are we going to be considered second term or third term...?" he asked.

Did President Donald Trump just hint at a third term during his State of the Union? A brief remark about his “second term” quickly grabbed attention and reignited debate.What exactly did he say, and what does it mean? Scroll down to read more. &nbsp;

Did Trump announce a 'third term' in his 2026 State of the Union address? Here’s the truth

A significant number of democratic lawmakers did not attend Trump's first State of the Union Address in the second term. This is partly as a protest to his policies, partly because of his rhetoric. Democrat lawmakers instead held numerous alternate events across Capitol Hill, showing the growing unpopularity and discontent with Trump's agenda.&nbsp;<h2>People's State of the Union</h2>Hundreds of people, along with 30 democratic lawmakers featuring Senators Chris Murphy, Ed Markey, Jeff Merkley, and Chris Van Hollen, gathered at the National Mall in Washington for a counter-rally, "People's State of the Union". The rally was hosted by progressive groups like MoveOn and MeidasTouch. Attendees held signs that read “No Money for ICE” and “Healthcare Not Warfare”. People also carried posters of 30 people who had been killed in dealings with ICE since Trump took office in 2025. People erupted into chants like “The people united will never be defeated”, “Abolish ICE! Abolish ICE!”, and “Release All the Files”. Katie Bethell, executive director of the progressive group MoveOn, said that the attendees had organised the boycott because they knew there would be no coherence between the realities of the country and Trump's narrative.&nbsp;The real State of the Union is “government that would rather protect powerful people in the Epstein files than the women and the girls who are sexually abused”, said representative Summer Lee of Pennsylvania. Lee further announced that she will introduce articles for impeachment against Attorney General Pam Bondi because she didn't comply with a subpoena to release the full unredacted Epstein Files.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-delilah-law-sotu-2026-cdl-ban-undocumented-immigrants-explained-1771998382709">SOTU 2026: What is Delilah law? Trump seeks CDL to ban undocumented drivers</a><h2>State of the Swamp</h2>Hundreds of people, including celebrities and politicans gathered at the National Press Club to organise “State of the Swamp”. The event was hosted by Defiance.org and other anti-Trump groups, and it was headlined by actors Robert De Niro and &nbsp;Mark Ruffalo. It also featured journalists Jim Acosta, Mehdi Hasan and Don Lemon. The events featured Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. They criticised the President's speeches, calling them incoherent ramblings. People wearing inflatable frog costumes listened to Trump's speech. “This is about our country imploding. It’s not like something outside, it’s something inside, and we can’t allow it, and it’s been brought to a head by a lunatic,” De Niro told the Guardian.&nbsp;<h2>Official Democratic response</h2>Democratic lawmaker Abigail Spanberger, the first female governor in Virginia's history, delivered the official democratic response. In her 12-minute speech from a symbolic location in Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia. She said President Trump failed to make life more affordable, keep US citizens safe at home and abroad. She also said that Trump, in his State of the Union Speech, did what everyone else does. "He lied, he scapegoated, and he distracted, and he offered no real solutions to our nation's pressing challenges, so many of which he is actively making worse." Other notable in-chamber protests were seen from Al Green, who held a placard reading “ Black people aren't apes” and Representative Melanie Stansbury, who displayed a sign saying “This is not normal”. Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib heckled Trump during his speech, and some walked out during the speech, while Al Green was thrown out. Other Representatives were seen holding up black signs with white letters saying: "Save Medicaid," "Musk Steals," and "Protect Veterans," with "False" written on the back.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Democratic lawmakers boycotted Donald Trump’s SOTU 2026, hosting counter-events like the “People’s State of the Union” and “State of the Swamp” in protest.

A significant number of democratic lawmakers did not attend Trump's first State of the Union Address in the second term. This is partly as a protest to his policies, partly because of his rhetoric. Democrat lawmakers instead held numerous alternate events across Capitol Hill, showing the growing unpopularity and discontent with Trump's agenda. People's State of the Union Hundreds of people, along with 30 democratic lawmakers featuring Senators Chris Murphy, Ed Markey, Jeff Merkley, and Chris Van Hollen, gathered at the National Mall in Washington for a counter-rally, "People's State of the Union". The rally was hosted by progressive groups like MoveOn and MeidasTouch. Attendees held signs that read “No Money for ICE” and “Healthcare Not Warfare”. People also carried posters of 30 people who had been killed in dealings with ICE since Trump took office in 2025. People erupted into chants like “The people united will never be defeated”, “Abolish ICE! Abolish ICE!”, and “Release All the Files”. Katie Bethell, executive director of the progressive group MoveOn, said that the attendees had organised the boycott because they knew there would be no coherence between the realities of the country and Trump's narrative. The real State of the Union is “government that would rather protect powerful people in the Epstein files than the women and the girls who are sexually abused”, said representative Summer Lee of Pennsylvania. Lee further announced that she will introduce articles for impeachment against Attorney General Pam Bondi because she didn't comply with a subpoena to release the full unredacted Epstein Files. Also Read: SOTU 2026: What is Delilah law? Trump seeks CDL to ban undocumented drivers State of the Swamp Hundreds of people, including celebrities and politicans gathered at the National Press Club to organise “State of the Swamp”. The event was hosted by Defiance.org and other anti-Trump groups, and it was headlined by actors Robert De Niro and Mark Ruffalo. It also featured journalists Jim Acosta, Mehdi Hasan and Don Lemon. The events featured Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. They criticised the President's speeches, calling them incoherent ramblings. People wearing inflatable frog costumes listened to Trump's speech. “This is about our country imploding. It’s not like something outside, it’s something inside, and we can’t allow it, and it’s been brought to a head by a lunatic,” De Niro told the Guardian. Official Democratic response Democratic lawmaker Abigail Spanberger, the first female governor in Virginia's history, delivered the official democratic response. In her 12-minute speech from a symbolic location in Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia. She said President Trump failed to make life more affordable, keep US citizens safe at home and abroad. She also said that Trump, in his State of the Union Speech, did what everyone else does. "He lied, he scapegoated, and he distracted, and he offered no real solutions to our nation's pressing challenges, so many of which he is actively making worse." Other notable in-chamber protests were seen from Al Green, who held a placard reading “ Black people aren't apes” and Representative Melanie Stansbury, who displayed a sign saying “This is not normal”. Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib heckled Trump during his speech, and some walked out during the speech, while Al Green was thrown out. Other Representatives were seen holding up black signs with white letters saying: "Save Medicaid," "Musk Steals," and "Protect Veterans," with "False" written on the back.

Democratic lawmakers boycotted Donald Trump’s SOTU 2026, hosting counter-events like the “People’s State of the Union” and “State of the Swamp” in protest.

Democrats hold alternate events during Trump's State of Union address

Trump claimed he ended eight wars in 10 months, but several conflicts were not full wars, some predated his term, and key nations dispute his role in brokering lasting peace agreements.

Trump claimed he ended eight wars in 10 months, but several conflicts were not full wars, some predated his term, and key nations dispute his role in brokering lasting peace agreements.

Did Trump end 8 conflicts in 10 months? WION fact-check on US president’s BIG war claims

US President Donald Trump, during his State of the Union speech on February 24, introduced the “Delilah law” to ban commercial driving licenses for undocumented immigrants. This is merely a legislative proposal, not a law yet. President Donald Trump, since the beginning of his second term, accelerated efforts to address immigration-related issues and weaponised it on various instances. "We will pass the Delilah Law that will bar illegal aliens from getting a commercial driver's license," said Trump in his statement.<h2>What Is the ‘Delilah Law’?</h2>President Donald Trump, in his speech, called upon Congress to pass a law that would bar all states from allowing undocumented immigrants to obtain commercial driving licenses. Commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) are licenses required to operate heavy vehicles such as 18-wheelers or buses weighing more than 10,000 lbs.<h2>Why is it called the ‘Delilah Law’?&nbsp;</h2>US President Donald Trump referred to the proposed legislation as the “Delilah Law”, named after Dalilah Coleman, then 5 years old, who was severely injured after an accident involving her family's car and trailer tractor. The injury left her with Traumatic Brain Injury, Cerebral Palsy, and loss of major psychomotor functions. She is now relearning how to speak. The person involved in the accident was an undocumented immigrant, Partap Singh, an Indian man&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Dalilah Coleman is a 1st-grader who was severely injured in a car accident caused by an illegal alien driving a semitruck with a CDL. Her injuries include a traumatic brain injury, Cerebral Palsy, and she will need lifelong care and therapy. The driver crossed the border in… <a href="https://t.co/L290GaiwTs">pic.twitter.com/L290GaiwTs</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/2026493705394221485?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;<h2>What did Trump say during SOTU 2026?</h2>Trump, in the 2026 State of the Union speech, said that most of the "illegal immigrants" did not know English and couldn't recognise basic signs. He further accused Joe Biden of letting in the “illegal immigrant", which caused the accident. Now, 7-year-old Delilah Coleman was among the audience along with her father, Marcus. Trump called her an “inspiration”"Many, if not most, illegal aliens do not speak English and cannot read even the most basic road signs," said Trump. He continued, "That's why tonight I'm calling on Congress to pass what we will call the Delilah law, barring any state from granting commercial driver's licences to illegal aliens."<h2>How CDLs Currently Work in the US?</h2>The state authorities are responsible for issuing CDLs under the guidelines set by the Department of Transport of the Federal Government. Any applicant must provide proof of training from a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) certified training provider. They must also pass the written test, as well medical and skill test. The Federal government, on February 13, introduced an administrative rule that made it illegal to provide CDLs to undocumented immigrants. Earlier, CDLs were issued based on only an Employment Authorisation Document (EAD) for asylum seekers, but now it is allowed for only specific visas like H-2A (agricultural), H-2B (non-agricultural), or E-2 (treaty investor). US President Donald Trump is urging the congress to make it official by turning it into an federal law.

US President Donald Trump on February 24, 2026, made a legislative proposal to the congress to pass the Delilah law. This would effectively turn the administrative rule of ban of commercial driving licenses for undocumented immigrants into a federal law. 

US President Donald Trump, during his State of the Union speech on February 24, introduced the “Delilah law” to ban commercial driving licenses for undocumented immigrants. This is merely a legislative proposal, not a law yet. President Donald Trump, since the beginning of his second term, accelerated efforts to address immigration-related issues and weaponised it on various instances. "We will pass the Delilah Law that will bar illegal aliens from getting a commercial driver's license," said Trump in his statement. What Is the ‘Delilah Law’? President Donald Trump, in his speech, called upon Congress to pass a law that would bar all states from allowing undocumented immigrants to obtain commercial driving licenses. Commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) are licenses required to operate heavy vehicles such as 18-wheelers or buses weighing more than 10,000 lbs. Why is it called the ‘Delilah Law’? US President Donald Trump referred to the proposed legislation as the “Delilah Law”, named after Dalilah Coleman, then 5 years old, who was severely injured after an accident involving her family's car and trailer tractor. The injury left her with Traumatic Brain Injury, Cerebral Palsy, and loss of major psychomotor functions. She is now relearning how to speak. The person involved in the accident was an undocumented immigrant, Partap Singh, an Indian man

US President Donald Trump, on February 24, 2026, made a legislative proposal to the congress to pass the Delilah law. This would effectively turn the administrative rule of ban of commercial driving licenses for undocumented immigrants into a federal law.&nbsp;

SOTU 2026: What is Delilah law? Trump seeks CDL to ban undocumented drivers

Virginia's Democrat Governor Abigail Spanberger on Tuesday (Feb 24) slammed President Donald Trump for spreading false rhetoric and alleged that the POTUS was "enriching himself, his family, his friends" with the policies he has pushed through the Republican-led Congress. &nbsp;"The scale of the corruption is unprecedented," stated the Democrat during her party's official response to Trump’s State of the Union address. She also slammed Trump's hardline anti-immigration push and invoked the detention of five-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Minneapolis.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democrat-al-green-thrown-out-house-after-black-people-aren-t-apes-protest-during-trump-s-state-of-the-union-address-speech-what-was-the-sign-about-1771981718199">Democrat protests Trump speech with 'Black people aren’t apes’ sign. Here's why</a><h2>"Somebody must be benefiting"</h2>Speaking from Colonial Williamsburg, the restored 18th century capital that became a cradle of resistance to British rule, Spanberger alleged that "Somebody must be benefiting" from Trump's policies. She alleged that Trump was courting foreign governments and princes for favours, listing the Qatari-gifted Air Force One and the “donations” received for Trump's White House ballroom revamp."There's the cover-up of the Epstein files, the crypto scams, cosying up to foreign princes for aeroplanes and billionaires for ballrooms, putting his name and face on buildings all over our nation's capital," said the Virginia Governor. "This is not what our founders envisioned, not by a long shot," she added.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-blog-donald-trump-state-of-the-union-address-2026-us-economy-immigration-midterms-democrats-republicans-house-congress-tariffs-affordability-epstein-files-1771981694990">US State of Union LIVE: 'Scale of corruption unprecedented' Democrats slam Trump</a><h2>'Is the president working for you? We all know the answer is no'</h2>Spanberger framed her remarks around three questions. "Is the president working to make life more affordable for you and your family? Is the president working to keep Americans safe, both at home and abroad? Is the president working for you?"Her answer, repeated throughout the 13-minute address, was blunt. "We all know the answer is no."Spanberger argued that Trump’s trade policies have driven up costs for families. &nbsp;She noted that Trump's “reckless trade policies” have added more than $1,700 in expenses per household. "Small Businesses have suffered. Farmers have suffered, some losing entire markets every day. Americans are paying the price," she said.Even though the Supreme Court recently struck down those tariffs, she said, "the damage to us, the American people, has already been done"."Republicans in Congress remain unwilling to assert their constitutional authority to stop him," she added. "They’re making your life harder. They’re making your life more expensive."While Trump described what he called a "golden age of America" during his nearly two-hour address, Spanberger said Americans "did not hear the truth" about rising costs in housing, health care and groceries.

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger accused Donald Trump of “unprecedented” corruption in the Democratic response to his State of the Union. She alleged he was enriching allies, driving up household costs by $1,700 through trade policies, and failing to put Americans first.

Virginia's Democrat Governor Abigail Spanberger on Tuesday (Feb 24) slammed President Donald Trump for spreading false rhetoric and alleged that the POTUS was "enriching himself, his family, his friends" with the policies he has pushed through the Republican-led Congress. "The scale of the corruption is unprecedented," stated the Democrat during her party's official response to Trump’s State of the Union address. She also slammed Trump's hardline anti-immigration push and invoked the detention of five-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Minneapolis. Also read | Democrat protests Trump speech with 'Black people aren’t apes’ sign. Here's why "Somebody must be benefiting" Speaking from Colonial Williamsburg, the restored 18th century capital that became a cradle of resistance to British rule, Spanberger alleged that "Somebody must be benefiting" from Trump's policies. She alleged that Trump was courting foreign governments and princes for favours, listing the Qatari-gifted Air Force One and the “donations” received for Trump's White House ballroom revamp. "There's the cover-up of the Epstein files, the crypto scams, cosying up to foreign princes for aeroplanes and billionaires for ballrooms, putting his name and face on buildings all over our nation's capital," said the Virginia Governor. "This is not what our founders envisioned, not by a long shot," she added. Also read | US State of Union LIVE: 'Scale of corruption unprecedented' Democrats slam Trump 'Is the president working for you? We all know the answer is no' Spanberger framed her remarks around three questions. "Is the president working to make life more affordable for you and your family? Is the president working to keep Americans safe, both at home and abroad? Is the president working for you?" Her answer, repeated throughout the 13-minute address, was blunt. "We all know the answer is no." Spanberger argued that Trump’s trade policies have driven up costs for families. She noted that Trump's “reckless trade policies” have added more than $1,700 in expenses per household. "Small Businesses have suffered. Farmers have suffered, some losing entire markets every day. Americans are paying the price," she said. Even though the Supreme Court recently struck down those tariffs, she said, "the damage to us, the American people, has already been done". "Republicans in Congress remain unwilling to assert their constitutional authority to stop him," she added. "They’re making your life harder. They’re making your life more expensive." While Trump described what he called a "golden age of America" during his nearly two-hour address, Spanberger said Americans "did not hear the truth" about rising costs in housing, health care and groceries.

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger accused Donald Trump of “unprecedented” corruption in the Democratic response to his State of the Union. She alleged he was enriching allies, driving up household costs by $1,700 through trade policies, and failing to put Americans first.

Abigail Spanberger accuses Trump admin of 'unprecedented corruption' in Democratic response to State of the Union address

US President Donald Trump reiterated the claim that he ended India and Pakistan war, saying 35 million people said that Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif would have died if it weren't for my involvement. The Republican leader made the remarks at his address at the State of the Union of his second term to a joint session of Congress in the House Chamber of the United States Capitol.“First 10 months, I ended eight wars, including Cambodia and Thailand, Pakistan and India, would’ve been a nuclear war, 35 million people said the Prime Minister of Pakistan would’ve died if it weren’t for my involvement.”Trump continued the list, “Kosovo and Serbia, Israel and Iran, Egypt and Ethiopia, Armenia and Azerbaijan, Congo and Rwanda, and of course the war in Gaza. I wanna thank Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner for your help.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">PRESIDENT TRUMP: We’re proudly restoring safety for Americans at home and abroad. In my first ten months, I ended eight wars. <a href="https://t.co/BrIBSMhPj0">pic.twitter.com/BrIBSMhPj0</a>&mdash; Department of State (@StateDept) <a href="https://twitter.com/StateDept/status/2026504974583181626?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The US president has made similar claims of ending India and Pakistan war in May last year, despite clarification from India. Earlier on Thursday (Feb 19), Trump once again took the credit for ending eight wars. He added that 11 jets were shot down during the India-Pakistan war, marking the sixth time he changed the number.&nbsp;Air Chief Marshal AP Singh has confirmed that Indian forces downed at least five Pakistani fighter jets and another large aircraft in May during Operation Sindoor, which was launched in response to the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. During the operation, India successfully targeted nine terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The two nations reached an understanding of a ceasefire after four days of military conflict.The Air Chief Marshal added that Pakistani jets were shot down by the S-400 air defence systems, marking “the largest ever recorded surface-to-air kill.” New Delhi has also rejected the repeated claims of mediation made by Trump, stressing that a ceasefire was reached bilaterally after a call from Pakistan's Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) to their Indian counterpart, and no third party was involved.

US President Donald Trump reiterated the claim that he ended India and Pakistan, saying 35 million people said that Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif would have died if it weren't for my involvement.

US President Donald Trump reiterated the claim that he ended India and Pakistan war, saying 35 million people said that Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif would have died if it weren't for my involvement. The Republican leader made the remarks at his address at the State of the Union of his second term to a joint session of Congress in the House Chamber of the United States Capitol. “First 10 months, I ended eight wars, including Cambodia and Thailand, Pakistan and India, would’ve been a nuclear war, 35 million people said the Prime Minister of Pakistan would’ve died if it weren’t for my involvement.” Trump continued the list, “Kosovo and Serbia, Israel and Iran, Egypt and Ethiopia, Armenia and Azerbaijan, Congo and Rwanda, and of course the war in Gaza. I wanna thank Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner for your help.”

US President Donald Trump reiterated the claim that he ended India and Pakistan, saying 35 million people said that Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif would have died if it weren't for my involvement.

Did Trump say ‘Pak PM would’ve died if not for me’ during India-Pakistan war?

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Feb 24) called on Congress to pass the Dalilah Law that will prevent illegal immigrants from getting a commercial driver’s license in the United States. During his speech at his address at the State of the Union of his second term to a joint session of Congress in the House Chamber of the United States Capitol, Trump highlighted the case of Dalilah Coleman, a five-year-old, who was critically injured in June 2024 when an 18-wheel tractor-trailer ploughed into her.Trump said that he is going to take care of the problem of illegal aliens, saying, “We will take care of this problem. We’re gonna take care of this problem. We are not playing games.”Trump claimed that the driver, an illegal alien, was let in by former president Joe Biden and was granted a commercial driver’s license by open borders politicians and California.“Doctors said Dalilah would never be able to walk or talk, have a good life. She wouldn’t be able to eat again. But against all odds, she’s in the first grade learning to walk, and she’s here this evening with her dad, Marcus, a fantastic man. Dalilah, you are a great inspiration,” the US president said.He continued, “Most illegal aliens do not speak English and cannot read even the most basic road signs as to direction, speed, danger or location. That’s why tonight I’m calling on Congress to pass what we will call the Dalilah law, barring any state from granting a commercial driver’s license to illegal aliens.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-pak-pm-would-ve-died-if-not-for-me-trump-reiterates-claim-of-ending-india-pakistan-war-1771990679386">Did Trump say ‘Pak PM would’ve died if not for me’ during India-Pakistan war?</a>

“We are deporting them, we don’t want them, get the hell out fast,” he added.<h2>What is Dalilah Law?</h2>The proposed Dalilah Law would prevent any state from granting a commercial driver’s license to immigrants who are in the country illegally. The law is aimed at improving road safety and ensuring only legal residents are given a commercial driver’s license. Trump also said that this would reduce employment incentives for illegal immigrants in sectors like logistics and long-haul trucking.The move comes as Trump continues his crackdown against illegal immigrants. He also cited several other crime incidents involving undocumented immigrants to push his policy against immigration.

Trump highlighted the case of Dalilah Coleman, a five-year-old, who was critically injured in June 2024 when an 18-wheel tractor-trailer ploughed into her.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Feb 24) called on Congress to pass the Dalilah Law that will prevent illegal immigrants from getting a commercial driver’s license in the United States. During his speech at his address at the State of the Union of his second term to a joint session of Congress in the House Chamber of the United States Capitol, Trump highlighted the case of Dalilah Coleman, a five-year-old, who was critically injured in June 2024 when an 18-wheel tractor-trailer ploughed into her. Trump said that he is going to take care of the problem of illegal aliens, saying, “We will take care of this problem. We’re gonna take care of this problem. We are not playing games.” Trump claimed that the driver, an illegal alien, was let in by former president Joe Biden and was granted a commercial driver’s license by open borders politicians and California. “Doctors said Dalilah would never be able to walk or talk, have a good life. She wouldn’t be able to eat again. But against all odds, she’s in the first grade learning to walk, and she’s here this evening with her dad, Marcus, a fantastic man. Dalilah, you are a great inspiration,” the US president said. He continued, “Most illegal aliens do not speak English and cannot read even the most basic road signs as to direction, speed, danger or location. That’s why tonight I’m calling on Congress to pass what we will call the Dalilah law, barring any state from granting a commercial driver’s license to illegal aliens.” Also read | Did Trump say ‘Pak PM would’ve died if not for me’ during India-Pakistan war?

Trump highlighted the case of Dalilah Coleman, a five-year-old, who was critically injured in June 2024 when an 18-wheel tractor-trailer ploughed into her.

‘We are not playing games’: Trump pushes ‘Dalilah Law’ barring illegal aliens from getting commercial driver’s license

A Democratic congressman was removed from the House chamber on Tuesday (Feb 24) night after staging a protest during President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address. Representative Al Green of Texas stood up as Trump entered to address the joint session of Congress, holding a sign that read, “Black people aren’t apes!” The message referred to a racist video that had briefly appeared earlier this month on Trump’s Truth Social account. The clip, which was later deleted, depicted former president Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama as monkeys.The video sparked criticism from lawmakers and civil rights groups, who called it offensive and dehumanising. The Obamas were the first Black president and first lady in US history.<h2>“Black people aren’t apes!”&nbsp;</h2>Green, who is Black, remained standing with the sign raised as Trump began his remarks. At one point, someone nearby appeared to try to grab the placard from him. Green did not back down. As the president launched into his speech, chants of “USA! USA! USA!” broke out from sections of the chamber. Moments later, aides escorted Green out.<h2>What did the video show?</h2>The video, posted late Thursday (Feb 5) night, quickly drew backlash across the political spectrum. Near the end of the roughly one-minute clip, which repeated conspiracy theories about Trump’s 2020 election loss to Joe Biden, the Obamas briefly appeared, their faces superimposed on the bodies of monkeys, while the song “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” played in the background.&nbsp;Following uproar, Trump refused to apologise, claiming that he had not watched the racist Obama ape video in full before it was posted on his Truth Social account. Talking to reporters, Trump said, “I just looked at the first part... and I didn't see the whole thing,” adding that he "gave" the video to staff members to upload, and that they also did not watch it completely. "No, I didn't make a mistake," he insisted.The post remained online for about 12 hours before being removed. The White House initially dismissed criticism as "fake outrage," but later claimed the video had been shared in error by a staff member. "A White House staffer erroneously made the post. It has been taken down," a White House official told AFP.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/epstein-files-trump-andrew-clinton-and-more-the-11-prominent-names-listed-in-fbi-presentation-for-alleged-abuse-of-minors-1770354719231">Trump, Clinton and more - 11 'prominent names' listed by FBI in Epstein Files</a>However, earlier, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt had claimed that the images were "from an internet meme video depicting President Trump as the King of the Jungle and Democrats as characters from The Lion King." She further asked the press to "report on something today that actually matters to the American public," which apparently an openly racist depiction of America's first Black president isn't.

Democrat Al Green was thrown out of the House after protesting during Donald Trump’s State of the Union with a sign reading “Black people aren’t apes!” The protest followed backlash over a Truth Social video the POTUS posted. All you need to know.

A Democratic congressman was removed from the House chamber on Tuesday (Feb 24) night after staging a protest during President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address. Representative Al Green of Texas stood up as Trump entered to address the joint session of Congress, holding a sign that read, “Black people aren’t apes!” The message referred to a racist video that had briefly appeared earlier this month on Trump’s Truth Social account. The clip, which was later deleted, depicted former president Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama as monkeys. The video sparked criticism from lawmakers and civil rights groups, who called it offensive and dehumanising. The Obamas were the first Black president and first lady in US history. “Black people aren’t apes!” Green, who is Black, remained standing with the sign raised as Trump began his remarks. At one point, someone nearby appeared to try to grab the placard from him. Green did not back down. As the president launched into his speech, chants of “USA! USA! USA!” broke out from sections of the chamber. Moments later, aides escorted Green out. What did the video show? The video, posted late Thursday (Feb 5) night, quickly drew backlash across the political spectrum. Near the end of the roughly one-minute clip, which repeated conspiracy theories about Trump’s 2020 election loss to Joe Biden, the Obamas briefly appeared, their faces superimposed on the bodies of monkeys, while the song “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” played in the background. Following uproar, Trump refused to apologise, claiming that he had not watched the racist Obama ape video in full before it was posted on his Truth Social account. Talking to reporters, Trump said, “I just looked at the first part... and I didn't see the whole thing,” adding that he "gave" the video to staff members to upload, and that they also did not watch it completely. "No, I didn't make a mistake," he insisted. The post remained online for about 12 hours before being removed. The White House initially dismissed criticism as "fake outrage," but later claimed the video had been shared in error by a staff member. "A White House staffer erroneously made the post. It has been taken down," a White House official told AFP. Also read | Trump, Clinton and more - 11 'prominent names' listed by FBI in Epstein Files However, earlier, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt had claimed that the images were "from an internet meme video depicting President Trump as the King of the Jungle and Democrats as characters from The Lion King." She further asked the press to "report on something today that actually matters to the American public," which apparently an openly racist depiction of America's first Black president isn't.

Democrat Al Green was thrown out of the House after protesting during Donald Trump’s State of the Union with a sign reading “Black people aren’t apes!” The protest followed backlash over a Truth Social video the POTUS posted. All you need to know.

Democrat Al Green thrown out House after ‘Black people aren’t apes’ protest during Trump's State of the Union address speech. What was the sign about?

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Feb 24) touted Venezuela as the “friend and partner” of the United States, saying that the South American nation sent more than 80 million barrels of oil to the US. He added that he “kept his promise to drill baby drill” by increasing the natural gas production by 600,000 barrels a day. The Republican made the remarks at his address at the State of the Union of his second term to a joint session of Congress in the House Chamber of the United States Capitol.“American oil production is up by 600,000 barrels a day, and we just received from our friend and partner, Venezuela, more than 80 million barrels of oil,” Trump said.The US president added, “American natural gas production is at an all-time high because I kept my promise to drill baby drill.”Trump also said that his administration has created thousands of jobs in the private sector.&nbsp;“As thousands of new businesses are forming and factories, plants and laboratories are being built, we’ve added 70,000 new construction jobs in just a very short period of time. Getting bigger and bigger and stronger, nobody can believe what they’re watching,” he said. “We’re Americans are working today at any time in the history of our country more working today, and 100% of all jobs created under my administration have been in the private sector.”This comes after Trump ordered American forces to capture Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro and bomb Caracas over alleged smuggling of drugs into the United States. Since then Trump administration has taken control of Venezuelan oil production.&nbsp;

In his State of the Union address, Trump called Venezuela a “friend and partner,” saying it sent over 80 million barrels of oil to the US. He added that American natural gas output has surged significantly, keeping to his promise to “drill baby drill”.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Feb 24) touted Venezuela as the “friend and partner” of the United States, saying that the South American nation sent more than 80 million barrels of oil to the US. He added that he “kept his promise to drill baby drill” by increasing the natural gas production by 600,000 barrels a day. The Republican made the remarks at his address at the State of the Union of his second term to a joint session of Congress in the House Chamber of the United States Capitol. “American oil production is up by 600,000 barrels a day, and we just received from our friend and partner, Venezuela, more than 80 million barrels of oil,” Trump said. The US president added, “American natural gas production is at an all-time high because I kept my promise to drill baby drill.” Trump also said that his administration has created thousands of jobs in the private sector. “As thousands of new businesses are forming and factories, plants and laboratories are being built, we’ve added 70,000 new construction jobs in just a very short period of time. Getting bigger and bigger and stronger, nobody can believe what they’re watching,” he said. “We’re Americans are working today at any time in the history of our country more working today, and 100% of all jobs created under my administration have been in the private sector.” This comes after Trump ordered American forces to capture Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro and bomb Caracas over alleged smuggling of drugs into the United States. Since then Trump administration has taken control of Venezuelan oil production.

In his State of the Union address, Trump called Venezuela a “friend and partner,” saying it sent over 80 million barrels of oil to the US. He added that American natural gas output has surged significantly, keeping to his promise to “drill baby drill”.

‘Kept my promise to drill baby drill’: Trump says Venezuela sent 80 million barrels of oil to US