Ideas

President Trump’s State-of-the-Union Variety Show

Were you not entertained?

First published in The Atlantic on February 25, 2026.

by Tom Nichols, The Atlantic

February 25, 2026 | reading time: 5 Min.

The longest State of the Union in modern history is now over. Donald Trump held court in the House of Representatives and said little of substance, but substance wasn’t the point. This year, he intended to put on a show, with an array of guest stars and special appearances. He was happy, because he was playing the roles he clearly loves: game-show host, ringmaster, MC, beneficent granter of wishes—and, where the Democrats were concerned, a self-righteous inquisitor.