U.S. President Donald Trump delivered the longest State of the Union-style address in decades, speaking for about one hour and 48 minutes before Congress on Tuesday night. The speech exceeded the previous modern-era record he set last year at one hour and 39 minutes.
According to the American Presidency Project, the address is the lengthiest in over 60 years, surpassing Bill Clinton’s 2000 State of the Union, which ran one hour and 28 minutes. The shortest speech in the same period was Richard Nixon’s 28-minute address in 1972.
Trump’s address included multiple pauses for applause, interruptions, and recognitions, including a tribute to the U.S. men’s Olympic hockey team. The speech provided an opportunity to outline legislative priorities and frame the national agenda.
Observers note that the lengthy address comes amid polling showing many Americans feel the country is worse off than last year, highlighting the political context of Trump’s remarks.
