google-site-verification=sVM5bW4dz4pBUBx08fDi3frlhMoRYb75bthh-zE8SYY Fact-Checking the 2026 State of the Union - TAX Assistant

Fact-Checking the 2026 State of the Union

By Tax assistant

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Fact-Checking the 2026 State of the Union

President Trump’s recent address focused on “unprecedented” success, but a look at the data reveals several gaps between the White House narrative and reality.

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The Economy: Numbers vs. Reality

  • The Investment Gap: The President claimed $18 trillion in new investment commitments. However, official White House records only cite $9.7 trillion—and even that includes non-binding trade agreements rather than “cash in hand.”
  • Gas Prices: While Trump claimed gas is below $2.30 in most states, the national average actually sits at $2.95. No state currently averages under $2.37.
  • Manufacturing: Despite the “boom” rhetoric, 2025 saw the weakest job growth since 2002 (excluding recessions), largely due to the friction caused by new tariff policies.

Immigration and Public Safety

  • Crime Rates: Contrary to the President’s claims of a “migrant crime spike,” FBI and academic data consistently show that undocumented immigrants are arrested at lower rates than U.S.-born citizens.
  • Deportation Focus: The administration claims to prioritize “dangerous criminals,” yet data shows 74% of those currently in ICE detention have no criminal record.

Foreign Policy and Healthcare

  • “Solving” Wars: Trump claimed to have ended eight “unendable” wars. In reality, while mediation has occurred in places like Gaza, major conflicts like the war in Ukraine remain active and unresolved.
  • The “600%” Math: The President claimed drug price cuts of 300% to 600%. Since a 100% cut would make a drug free, these figures are mathematically impossible.

Context Note: This speech follows a major 2026 Supreme Court ruling that recently overturned key parts of the President’s global tariff strategy.

Key Takeaways Table

Claim CategoryPresident’s StatementVerified Data
Investment$18 Trillion$9.7 Trillion (Estimated)
Gas PricesUnder $2.30 in most states$2.95 (National Average)
Drug Prices300% – 600% reductionsMathematically impossible
ImmigrationRising crime waveNo statistical evidence