Trump’s 2025 State of the Union: 10 Key Takeaways

On Tuesday night, President Trump delivered the first State of the Union address of his second term as President of the United States. There were many incredible moments, ranging from Democratic congressman Al Green (D-TX09) getting thrown out to a 13-year-old cancer survivor being made an honorary Secret Service agent. In case you missed it (and it was the longest State of the Union address in history), here are the top 10 takeaways:

1. Negotiating Peace in Ukraine

“Earlier today I received an important letter from President Zelensky of Ukraine. The letter reads: ‘Ukraine is ready to come to the negotiating table as soon as possible to bring lasting peace closer.’”

Trump reiterated that it is his intent to bring the war in Ukraine to an end, revealing a letter from Zelensky expressing willingness to work towards a deal. This could reshape international relations and end one of the deadliest conflicts of the 21st century. It is the first concrete sign towards a potential resolution and marks Trump’s attempt to position himself as the leader who could end the war (one that he says would never have happened if he had been president).

2. Border Crackdown & Largest Deportation Operation in U.S. History

“Since taking office, my administration has launched the most sweeping border and immigration crackdown in American history, and we quickly achieved the lowest numbers of illegal border crossers ever recorded.”

Trump emphasized that his immigration policies have already led to historically low illegal border crossings. He announced the largest deportation operation in American history, surpassing Eisenhower’s efforts, and signed the Laken Riley Act to detain criminal illegal aliens. This signals a major shift in immigration policy and law enforcement priorities from the previous administration.

3. Executive Order Declaring Only Two Genders

“I signed an order making it the official policy of the United States government that there are only two genders: male and female.”

Trump signed an executive order making it official U.S. policy that there are only two genders: male and female. He also banned men from competing in women’s sports, citing the case of Payton McNabb. This represents one of the most significant federal actions in the ongoing cultural battle over gender ideology.

4. Declaring Victory & a “Golden Age” of America

“America is back. The golden age of America has only just begun. It will be like nothing that has ever been seen before.”

Trump framed his election as an historic mandate for bold change, claiming he had already done more in 43 days than most administrations accomplish in four or eight years. He declared that “America is back” and that the country was entering a new “Golden Age.” This reinforced his political message and sets the ambitious tone for the remainder of his presidency.

5. Arrest of the ISIS Terrorist Behind the 2021 Abbey Gate Bombing

“Tonight, I am pleased to announce that we have just apprehended the top terrorist responsible for that atrocity, and he is right now on his way here to face the swift sword of American justice.”

Trump announced that the ISIS terrorist responsible for the horrific Abbey Gate attack during Biden’s disastrous Afghanistan withdrawal had been captured and was en route to face American justice. This moment symbolizes both justice for the families of the 13 fallen service members and a direct contrast to the Biden administration’s handling of the deadly debacle.

6. Tariffs & Economic Protectionism

“On April 2, reciprocal tariffs kick in, and whatever they tariff us, other countries, we will tariff them.”

Trump introduced a new “reciprocal tariffs” policy, stating that if other countries impose tariffs on U.S. goods, America will impose equal or greater tariffs on theirs. This is a major shift in global trade policy that could have significant economic repercussions, particularly with China, Canada, Mexico, and the European Union.

7. Creating the Golden Dome Missile Defense System

“I am asking Congress to fund a state-of-the-art golden dome missile defense shield to protect our homeland—all made in the U.S.A.”

Trump called for funding a state-of-the-art missile defense system to protect the homeland, similar to Israel’s Iron Dome. This would be a landmark military investment, making missile defense a national priority in response to potential global threats. Better to have it and not need it?

8. Ending DEI & Wokeness in Government & Military

“We’ve ended the tyranny of so-called diversity, equity, and inclusion policies all across the entire federal government.”

Trump announced a total elimination of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies across the government, military, and private sector, declaring that “America will be woke no longer.” This represents a complete cultural and institutional reversal, likely to face continued legal and political challenges. Merit, Trump says, is what matters (and most Americans probably agree).

9. The Panama Canal & Greenland Announcements

“The Panama Canal was built by Americans for Americans, not for others… and we’re taking it back.”

Trump declared that America would reclaim the Panama Canal for national security reasons and also invited Greenland to become part of the United States. While significant in terms of geopolitical strategy, these moves could take years to materialize and face major international pushback. That being said, Trump seemed quite confident that they would ultimately happen. Time will tell, but Secretary of State Marco Rubio certainly has his work cut out for him.

10. Saved by God in the Assassination Attempt

“I believe that my life was saved that day in Butler for a very good reason. I was saved by God to Make America Great Again.”

Trump recounted the assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania, stating that he was “saved by God” to fulfill his mission. While emotionally powerful and important to his personal narrative, it does not have the immediate policy impact of other moments from the speech. Some progressive pundits found it to be inappropriate, almost as if he was referencing a "mandate of heaven" bestowed upon monarchs, but that is only one interpretation.

Undoubtedly, Trump's 5th State of the Union address will go down as one of the most consequential speeches of his political life. Many have called it one of his greatest speeches and the approval numbers were relatively strong. However, Trump does face some adverse economic headwinds and foreign policy challenges that will need to be addressed successfully and quickly if he is to maintain support at current levels (and ideally, see an increase). We will see over the next few months how he is able to navigate these problems, work towards reducing the size and scope of government, and improve the lives of everyday Americans.

Michael J. Hout is Editor-in-Chief of Liberty Affair. Based in Warsaw, Poland, he writes about politics, culture, and history. Follow his latest insights on X: @michaeljhout.