Trump State of the Union: Fact-Checking Claims on Economy, Border & Taxes

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump delivered his first State of the Union address of his second term Tuesday night, outlining his agenda and touting accomplishments while facing scrutiny over the accuracy of some of his claims. As NPR’s fact-checking team reported, several statements made by the President require context and verification.

Trump repeatedly emphasized a positive economic outlook, stating, “More Americans are working today than at any time in the history of our country.” While job growth has been a feature of his administration, the pace slowed considerably in 2025, with employers adding just 181,000 jobs for the year, a significant drop from the 1.4 million added in 2024.

The President also claimed that gasoline prices have fallen to as low as $1.85 a gallon in some states, a substantial decrease from the peak of over $6 a gallon seen during his predecessor’s term. While prices have indeed fallen, the $1.85 figure was an isolated instance in Iowa earlier this month, and the national average currently stands at $2.92, according to AAA.

On the issue of inflation, Trump asserted his administration had driven core inflation down to the lowest level in more than five years, and to 1.7% in the last three months of 2025. While inflation has cooled, the cost of living remains elevated, with increases in housing, groceries, electricity, and natural gas offsetting declines in prices for items like gasoline and eggs. The Federal Reserve’s preferred measure shows prices still climbing at a rate comparable to last year.

The President also highlighted the passage of tax cuts, calling them “the largest tax cuts in American history.” However, analysis by the Tax Foundation indicates the recent tax package is actually the sixth largest in U.S. History. The benefits of these cuts are also unevenly distributed, with the wealthiest Americans receiving the largest share, while lower-income households may see little to no benefit after accounting for reductions in government programs.

Regarding border security, Trump claimed to have established “the strongest and most secure border in American history.” While Border Patrol encounters have fallen to their lowest level in more than 50 years, with 237,538 crossings recorded in 2025, it is not accurate to state there have been zero crossings. The administration’s claims of a completely “unvetted” border during the previous administration are also contested.

Trump also discussed tariffs, stating they would “substantially replace the modern day system of income tax.” He claimed these tariffs are “paid for by foreign countries.” Economists generally agree that the costs of tariffs are largely borne by U.S. Businesses and consumers. The Supreme Court recently struck down about half of Trump’s tariffs, ruling he had exceeded his authority.

The President’s address comes at a time of division among Americans, with a recent NPR/PBS News/Marist poll revealing that six in ten believe the country is worse off than last year and a majority feel the state of the union is not strong. NPR’s reporters provided fact-checking and context throughout the speech, covering topics including immigration, the economy, tariffs, trade, and foreign policy.