Summary of Trump's State of the Nation Address

Here's a summary  of Trumps State of the Union Address

🇺🇸 A Nation Addressed: Trump’s 2026 State of the Union

February 24, 2026 — Washington, D.C.

Last night, President Donald Trump delivered his first official State of the Union address of his second presidential term before a joint session of the U.S. Congress. At 1 hour and 48 minutes, it became the longest State of the Union speech in American history. 

With midterm elections looming later this year and the country deeply polarized, the address was designed to rally his political base, set the agenda for 2026, and defend his record  but it also drew sharp criticism and controversyfrom across the political spectrum.

🟢 HIGHLIGHTS: What Trump & Supporters Applauded

🔹 An Assertive Opening Message

Trump kicked off by declaring that “our nation is back, bigger, better, richer, and stronger than ever before”, framing his first year back in office as a “turnaround for the ages.” 

This narrative became the backbone of the speech:

• A strong economy with falling inflation and rising incomes (as Trump described it). 

• Job creation and reduced dependency on government support. 

• A secure border and stronger law enforcement. 

🏅 Honoring Military & American Heroes

Trump used the moment to spotlight individuals who embodied service and sacrifice. Military members and veterans, including a 100-year-old Korean War hero awarded the Medal of Honor, received prolonged bipartisan applause. 

Trump also honored National Guard members wounded in the line of duty, offering emotional moments that resonated across party lines. 

💊 Healthcare & Prescription Costs

In a major policy push, the president touted his “TrumpRx” initiative aimed at lowering prescription drug prices by tying U.S. costs to the lowest prices in other countries. He introduced recipients of these savings as human proof of success. 

🌍 Foreign Policy & National Security

Trump took a hard line on foreign threats, especially regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions, portraying them as a top security concern and affirming U.S. military strength. 

📊 Economic & Policy Achievements

His speech also covered:

• A strong focus on economic revival.

• Emphasis on deregulation and employment growth. 

• Border security reforms and immigration enforcement.

• Criticism of the Affordable Care Act, which he labeled beneficial only to insurance companies. 

🔴 LOWLIGHTS: What Critics Called Out

 Partisan Tone & Polarization

Rather than offering a unifying message, the address often played more like a political rally than a national overview. Dissent from Democratic lawmakers from visible protests in the chamber to walkouts underscored the deep divide. 

 Length & Substance Debate

Though long, many commentators argued the speech was heavy on rhetoric and light on concrete plans, especially on pressing domestic issues like affordability and healthcare access. 

It was also the longest State of the Union ever delivered, a record that drew both curiosity and criticism for its pacing and length. 

 Controversial Rhetoric

Some statements about immigration and specific crimes were fact-checked and disputed by independent outlets, fueling claims that portions of the speech leaned toward exaggeration or misinformation. 

 Climate & Environment Ignored

Environmental advocacy groups noted that Trump’s remarks on energy focused heavily on increased fossil fuel production while avoiding deeper engagement on climate change concerns — a growing global issue. 

 Global Reaction

Internationally, some nations notably Iran accused the administration of spreading inaccurate claims regarding their nuclear program, pushing back sharply on Trump’s statements. 

 The Big Picture

Trump’s speech was both a showcase of accomplishments and a political manifesto — written against the backdrop of:

• Midterm elections that could reshape Congress.

• High inflation and economic anxiety among many Americans.

• Escalating global tensions, especially in the Middle East.

Supporters walked away feeling energized, with Trump’s claims backed by applause and chants of “USA.” Critics saw a speech filled with rhetorical flourishes and divisive rhetoric, arguing it glossed over real hardships most citizens still feel. 

In short, it was a moment of intense political theater as much as it was civic address, reflecting a nation sharply divided on policy, identity, and leadership.

Meanwhile, 

Here’s a fact-checked breakdown of the key claims Donald Trump made during his State of the Union address on February 24, 2026, including what independent reporters and experts verified, questioned, or contradicted based on data from official sources and independent analysis: 

 1. The Economy — Growth, Jobs & Inflation

Claim: “More Americans are working today than at any time in history.”
Fact Check:

✔️ It’s technically true that total employment numbers are historically high — the U.S. has more employed people than ever — but economists note this is largely tied to population growth, not a proportionally stronger labor market. For example, the employment rate and labor force participation haven’t dramatically improved. 

Claim: “I secured commitments for more than $18 trillion in global investments.”
Fact Check:

❌ This figure is exaggerated and unverified. The White House’s own list showed about $9.6–$9.7 trillion in investment announcements, but even that is an inflated total that includes planned projects from previous administrations and vague economic pledges. 

Claim: “Inflation is plummeting.”
Fact Check:

⚠️ Partially true but misleading. Inflation has eased compared with prior years, but prices overall remain higher than pre-pandemic levels, and not all goods and services have seen costs fall significantly. 

 2. Crime & Public Safety

Claim: “The murder rate saw its single largest decline in recorded history.”

Fact Check:
✔️ Early crime data suggests a substantial one-year drop in homicides, potentially the largest on record.
⚠️ Whether it’s “the lowest in 125 years” is questionable due to changes in how crime statistics were gathered over the decades. 

Claim: “We have almost no crime in Washington, D.C.”
Fact Check:
❌ This exaggerates the situation. Crime has fallen but not to near-zero levels; violent and property crimes still occur at notable rates. 

 3. Immigration & Border Claims

Claim: “In the past nine months, zero illegal aliens have been admitted.”
Fact Check:

⚠️ This is misleading. Border Patrol hasn’t released migrants into the U.S. for months, but it doesn’t mean no one has entered illegally — many are detained or removed, and others might evade detection entirely. 

Claim: “Illegal immigration brought murderers and criminals here.”
Fact Check:

❌ There’s no evidence that migrants arriving (legally or illegally) came directly from prisons or mental institutions in significant numbers, and the claim of an exact murder count tied to recent migration is not supported by public data. 

 4. Prescription Drug Prices & Healthcare

Claim: “We are ending wildly inflated prescription drug costs.”
Fact Check:

⚠️ Some specific drugs are cheaper through new policies like “TrumpRx” or most-favored-nation pricing, but reporting shows drug prices aren’t universally the lowest in the world and broader cost reductions across all prescriptions haven’t been documented. 

 5. Foreign Policy & Peace Claims

Claim: “I ended eight wars.”
Fact Check:

❌ This significantly overstates U.S. influence. Some ceasefires were brokered  and Trump claims credit for peace in several regions — but many conflicts remain unresolved, and some never escalated to formal war in the first place. 

Claim: “Iran killed 32,000 protesters.”
Fact Check:

❌ The exact number of protest deaths in Iran is in dispute. Independent estimates range broadly but generally fall well below the figure cited by Trump. 

 6. Taxes, Social Security & Voting

Claim: “We eliminated tax on tips, overtime, and Social Security.”
Fact Check:

⚠️ Some tax changes reduce taxes for many Americans, but not all Social Security recipients qualify, and the benefits phase out based on income. 

Claim: “Illegal aliens are ravaging U.S. elections.”
Fact Check:
❌ There’s no evidence of “rampant” noncitizen voting; independent reviews show such cases are extremely rare. 

 Summary of Fact-Check Themes

✔️ Some claims had accurate kernels of data (e.g., reductions in homicide rates, some inflation easing).
⚠️ Many assertions were true but framed in misleading ways (e.g., economic growth, immigration results).
❌ Several statements were false or unsupported by credible evidence (e.g., $18 trillion in new investments, rampant election fraud). 

 Takeaway

Trump’s speech mixed verifiable achievements with exaggerated figures and contested claims. Many of the headline numbers he offered reflect political framing more than neutral statistical reality. Fact-checked reporting highlights that understanding this speech requires careful separation of political rhetoric from independent data. 

Finally My Photo of the DaY: Filipino Buffet

Sixteen Most Hated People on Planet Earth

The most hated people depends on individual perspectives and experiences. However, based on public discourse and controversies, here are some of the most notable figures who have garnered significant dislike:

Top Contenders:

Elon Musk: Known for his role as CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, Musk has faced criticism for his handling of Twitter (now X), his views on women, and issues with Tesla's products. Some people view him as a symbol of hypocrisy, particularly regarding environmental issues and labor practices

.Donald Trump: The 45th and 47th President of the United States, Trump is a polarizing figure with strong opinions on both sides. Critics accuse him of lacking empathy, being narcissistic, and promoting divisive policies.

Vladimir Putin: The President of Russia, Putin is widely criticized for his authoritarian leadership style, human rights abuses, and role in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Benjamin Netanyahu: The former Prime Minister of Israel, Netanyahu faces criticism for his stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with many accusing him of promoting policies that exacerbate tensions and human rights abuses.

Kim Jong Un: The Supreme Leader of North Korea, Kim is known for his authoritarian regime, human rights abuses, and nuclear posturing.

Other notable mentions:

Sean Combs (P. Diddy): The rapper and entrepreneur faces allegations of sex trafficking, racketeering, and misconduct.

Taylor Swift: While beloved by many, Swift has also faced criticism for her perceived entitlement, feuds with other celebrities, and accusations of undermining fellow artists.

Kanye West: The rapper and fashion designer has faced criticism for his anti-Semitic comments, alleged manipulation of his wife, and eccentric behavior.

Andrew Tate: A social media personality, Tate has been accused of promoting misogyny and toxic masculinity.¹

Meanwhile, Why was 'My Way' Song banned in Karaoke Bars in the Philippines?

"My Way" wasn't officially banned, but it became infamous in the Philippines due to a string of violent incidents, including at least a dozen deaths, often linked to arguments or altercations triggered by people singing the song in karaoke bars. Experts attributed this phenomenon to a mix of factors, including:

Intense pride culture, Competitive karaoke environment, Lyrics that emphasize ego and defiance, Alcohol-fueled tension.  As a result, some karaoke bars in the Philippines quietly removed "My Way" from their song lists to avoid potential conflicts.

My Photo of the DaY:

This photo is unique because of the picturesque scene it captures, featuring a colorful bench, lush green field, and a beautiful rainbow in the background, making for a serene and breathtaking view. The combination of the vibrant colors and the tranquil setting creates a visually appealing image.

Finally: Donald Trump said little of substance in the longest State of the Union in modern history—but substance wasn’t the point, Tom Nichols argues. https://theatln.tc/xuX3H7uf

“This year, he intended to put on a show, with an array of guest stars and special appearances,” Nichols writes. “He was happy because he was playing the roles he clearly loves: game-show host, ringmaster, emcee, beneficent granter of wishes and, where the Democrats were concerned, a self-righteous inquisitor.”

“Every few minutes, Trump told a story and reached out into the audience like the host of ‘The Price Is Right,’ telling people to come on down,” Nichols writes.

But no group received more attention than the U.S. military. Trump handed out two Purple Hearts (one posthumously), a Legion of Merit, and two Congressional Medals of Honor.

“Military awards that should have been treated with dignity and respect were placed on men like prizes, including a moment when Trump’s co-host, the first lady, put one of the Medals of Honor around the neck of a 100-year-old fighter pilot,” Nichols writes. “Meanwhile, thousands of young men and women are a world away, waiting for his orders to go to war. The president of the United States might have taken a moment tonight to tell their families why they’re out there, and what they’re supposed to do. But why bother? The show must go on.”

: Jessica Koscielniak / Getty

Demystifying AI: A Personal Reflection

Demystifying AI: A Personal Reflection on Understanding the Machines We Created

Artificial Intelligence has become one of the most talked-about, and most misunderstood forces shaping our lives today. For some, AI represents breathtaking promise: cures for disease, safer roads, smarter cities. For others, it evokes fear of lost jobs, lost privacy, or even lost control. When I hear the phrase “demystifying AI,” I hear a quiet but urgent call: to slow down, to look past the headlines, and to understand what AI truly is and what it is not.

I did not grow up in a world of algorithms and machine learning. Like many of my generation, I witnessed technology evolve gradually: from typewriters to personal computers, from fax machines to email, from dial-up modems to instant global communication. Each leap forward brought both excitement and unease. AI feels different only because it touches something deeply human, thinking, creating, deciding. It feels as if the machines are crossing an invisible line. But are they really?

Demystifying AI begins with a simple truth: AI does not think in the way humans do. It does not possess consciousness, intention, or wisdom. It recognizes patterns, processes vast amounts of data, and produces outputs based on probabilities. Behind every AI system are human choices, what data to use, what goals to prioritize, what limits to impose. When we forget this, we give AI more power than it deserves and absolve ourselves of responsibility we still very much hold.

In my professional life, especially in environments shaped by science, regulation, and public trust, I learned that technology is never neutral. Tools reflect the values of the people who design and deploy them. AI in medicine, for example, can help doctors diagnose diseases earlier and more accurately, but only if the data are fair, the systems transparent, and human judgment remains central. Demystifying AI means acknowledging both its promise and its blind spots, without surrendering to either optimism or fear.

There is also a personal dimension to this conversation. Many people worry that AI will replace creativity, empathy, and human connection. Yet what I have observed is something quieter and more hopeful: AI often reveals what is uniquely human. A machine can draft a sentence, but it cannot draw from a lifetime of memories. It can analyze a poem, but it cannot feel loss, love, or longing. When we understand AI clearly, we stop competing with it and start using it as a tool, one that can amplify, rather than diminish, our humanity.

To demystify AI is also to democratize it. Understanding should not be reserved for engineers and corporations alone. Citizens, patients, workers, and readers everywhere deserve a clear explanation of how AI affects their lives and what rights they should expect. Transparency builds trust; secrecy breeds fear. The more open the conversation, the more responsibly AI can be integrated into society.

Ultimately, demystifying AI is not about the machines. It is about us. It is about whether we choose curiosity over panic, responsibility over resignation, and wisdom over speed. AI will continue to evolve, but the values guiding its use remain firmly in human hands. The mystery dissolves when we remember that simple fact.

As with every powerful tool humanity has ever created, the question is not what can AI do? The real question is what will we choose to do with it?

Closing Reflection: Why Demystifying AI Matters Now

As we move deeper into 2026, the conversation around AI is no longer abstract, it’s immediate and consequential. Governments, companies, and communities around the world are wrestling with how to balance innovation and safety. International summits on AI impact are bringing leaders together to discuss real governance frameworks and shared responsibilities. Countries are proposing new laws to increase transparency and protect people, while others debate whether regulation stifles or supports progress. 

At the same time, concerns about AI-generated misinformation, deepfakes, and automated content that blurs truth and fiction are rising, prompting collaborations to detect and combat harmful uses. This highlights a broader truth: AI’s influence isn’t just technical. it’s social, legal, and human. Without understanding what AI really does and how it works, we risk shaping policies driven by fear or misinformation rather than informed judgment.

In moments like these when markets react to AI investment plans, when laws are debated in parliaments, and when artists and technologists clash over creativity and authenticity,  demystifying AI isn’t just a philosophical exercise. It’s a practical necessity. It allows us to participate in these discussions not as bystanders but as informed citizens, rooted in curiosity instead of fear. And in that informed participation lies our best hope for guiding AI toward outcomes that reflect our values, not misconceptions.

Meanwhile, My Photo of the DaY:

Finally, the top Five News of the Day

📰 1. Blizzards and Historic Nor’easter Slam Northeastern U.S.

A powerful winter storm has brought blizzard conditions, heavy snow (potentially 1–2 ft), and dangerous winds to the Northeast, prompting blizzard warnings, travel chaos, and states of emergency in multiple states. 

📉 2. Public Opinion Shift on U.S. Checks and Balances

A growing majority of Americans say the system of checks and balances isn’t functioning properly, with skepticism rising on the eve of a major political address. 

🤖 3. Pentagon-AI Tensions: Anthropic CEO to Meet Defense Officials

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has called Anthropic’s CEO to the Pentagon for high-stakes talks over AI usage safeguards in military systems. 

⚖️ 4. Royal Scandal Deepens Around Former Prince Andrew

Sordid allegations and legal troubles surrounding Prince Andrew have intensified, causing internal strains within the British royal family. 

🚗 5. Severe Weather Driving Ban in Delaware

Sussex County remains under a Level 3 driving ban due to severe winter conditions and impassible roads.

Playing with ChatGPT Photo Copying Capabilities-Part 2

In Part 1 of this Series, I asked ChatGPT to copy a photo of me and Macrine taken in 1982 in several styles of Portrait. The results were amazing and beautiful. In this posting, I requested ChatGPT again using another photo of Us during our trip to Ensenada, Mexico in the late 1970's.    The above photo is the original.  The following are copies in water colors,  charcoal, and pop art style portrait copies.   

The Oil portrait style Copy of the Original Photo- Ensenada, Mexico Trip, late 1970's.  

As I mentioned in Part 1 of this Series, ChatGPT has 13 portrait styles in its repertoire. All 13 styles are beautiful and an are excellent copies of your original photos.  

Meanwhile, I asked ChatGPT to copy our Wedding Photo. The results I am really amazed.

Here's the Original photo of our Wedding, May 8, 1957

And Here's the AI Copy in Watercolor Wash

Copy in the Impressionistic Style

Copy in Oil Portrait Style 

Copy in Charcoal/Pencil Sketch Style

I was 23 years old and Macrine was 21 years old on our Wedding Day, in Boac, Marinduque, Philippines. 

Finally, this with the Inset Photo Taken 45 years Later:  

The Inset in the Photo was taken during Our 45th Wedding Anniversary, Colesville, MD The background was our Residence in Hammonton Rd. 

Which One Do You Like? I love them all.   

Filipino Nurses Success Stories- Carenna Graduating, Summa Cum Laude

From My Readings on Filipino Nurses All Over the World

Here are some inspiring success stories of Filipino nurses who have made a significant impact globally:

Notable Achievements

Leadership Roles: Manu Pelayo became the Deputy Chairperson of the Board of the Nursing Council of New Zealand, while Edmund Tabay was appointed as the second Filipino Chief Nursing Officer in the National Health Service in the UK.Historic 

Elections: Dr. Jose D. Castillo III became the first Filipino president-elect of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) in the US, and Karissa Subedi was elected to the Wagga Wagga City Council in Australia, marking a milestone for Filipino nurses in public service.

Awards and Recognition: Maria Victoria Juan received the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2024, and the Philippine Nurses Association of New York (PNA NY) along with Dr. Leo Jurado were recognized with the 2024 Presidential Award for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas (PAFIOO).

Global Impact

Humanitarian Work: Filipino nurses like Nurse Mary Jean Loreche and Nurse Jaime De Leon have played pivotal roles in global health missions, providing critical care and training in countries affected by disease outbreaks, natural disasters, and conflicts.

Cultural Adaptability: Filipino nurses are sought after worldwide for their ability to adapt to diverse healthcare settings, cultural nuances, and evolving medical practices.

Exceptional Care: They are known for their compassion, empathy, and dedication to patient care, making them valuable assets in healthcare institutions globally 

Qualities of Filipino Nurses

Strong Educational Foundation: Filipino nurses receive rigorous training and education, preparing them for the demands of the healthcare industry.

Cultural Sensitivity: They possess excellent communication skills, cultural empathy, and a strong work ethic, allowing them to thrive in multicultural environments.

Resilience and Adaptability: Filipino nurses demonstrate remarkable resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges, making them a valuable asset to healthcare teams worldwide 

Meanwhile, here's the AI Overview on the Above Topic:

Filipino nurses have achieved global success through resilience, high-quality care, and leadership in healthcare, with notable stories including trailblazers like 

Isabelita Paler, the first Filipino to lead the Virginia State Board of Nursing, and Anastacia Giron-Tupas, who advanced nursing education. Others have overcome immigration challenges and pandemics to secure international positions, earning prestigious accolades like the DAISY Award. 

Key Success Stories and Pioneers

• Isabelita Paler (USA): Became the first Filipino to preside over the Virginia State Board of Nursing in 1997.
• Anastacia Giron-Tupas (USA/Philippines): A pioneer who trained in the U.S. in 1914 and later developed the Philippines' first bachelor of science in nursing program.
• Julita Villaruel Sotejo (Philippines): Founded the University of the Philippines College of Nursing and wrote the Code of Ethics for Filipino nurses.
• Virginia Radl (Austria): A nurse who overcame language barriers and strict regulations to build a long-term career in Austria after arriving in 1978.
• Arlyn Dela Pena Medendorp (USA): A U.S. Army veteran and ICU nurse featured in the documentary "Nurse Unseen" for her contribution to the profession. 

International Career Advancements

• Overcoming Retrogression: Many, such as Rodfel and McAlvin, overcame years-long waits, visa denials, and professional hurdles to successfully work in the USA and UK, often gaining experience in intermediate countries first.
• Clinical Excellence: Nurses like Lauren Milanes transitioned from 14 years in Saudi Arabia to become US Registered Nurses (USRN).
• DAISY Award Recipient: A Filipina nurse (unnamed in source) overcame poverty and, with family support, built a career in the U.S., eventually receiving the DAISY Award for compassionate care. 

Impact on Global Health

Filipino nurses are recognized for their dedication and compassion, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, where they formed a significant part of the front-line response, as documented in "Nurse Unseen". In the UK, Filipina nurses have been recognized with Chief Nursing Officer awards for their service, while others like Paul Zuzon have transitioned from staff nurses to healthcare business owners

Meanwhile, I am Super Proud of Carenna- my youngest grand daughter accomplishments so far

From Ditas FaceBook Page:

Proud Mom moment - Carenna Katague-Thompson will graduate this May - Summa Cum Laude from The George Washington University - with a Bachelor's of Science from the Elliott School of International Affairs with a double major in Geography and a minor in Geographic Information Systems. And NOW she's been accepted to these graduate schools....which one will she pick?? NYC, Paris, Ann Arbor? or...will she get into the other programs. Stay tuned!

My Photo of the DaY:

A Photo Thank You Note, We sent to all who attended our 50th Wedding Anniversary Celebration, 2007, Boac, Marinduque, Philippines