On the evening of January 24, US President Donald Trump addressed Congress to review his first year in office. The event showcased a polarized environment, with applause from some sides and protests from others; nearly half of the opposition lawmakers chose to either skip or leave the speech early. In his address, Trump focused heavily on the economy, citing declines in inflation and listing other positive economic indicators. However, his claims were met with skepticism as he included false information regarding gasoline prices and presented historical employment numbers without necessary context.

During the speech, Trump also weighed in on legal matters, criticizing a recent Supreme Court decision that he deemed regrettable, which ruled against tariffs hitting several countries. Additionally, he reaffirmed his hardline stance on illegal immigration, although he notably omitted discussion regarding the recent deaths of two Americans involving immigration enforcement agents. The speech showcased the continued fragmentation in US politics, highlighting deep divisions within Congress about Trump's policies and their implications for the country.

The event was marked by a formal distribution of honor medals and other tributes from Trump to guests, reflecting a ceremonial aspect juxtaposed with a politically charged atmosphere. The mixed reactions within the Capitol serve as a microcosm of the broader national discourse on Trump's presidency, drawing attention to both accomplishments and contentious points that symbolize ongoing debates over governance and policy in the United States.