Trump delivers State of the Union address: WATCH LIVE

The US leader will use the speech to celebrate the 250th anniversary of a “strong, prosperous and respected” nation

President Donald Trump is delivering his State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress, using the primetime speech to highlight his administration’s record over the past 13 months and outline priorities for the year ahead.

The address – the first official State of the Union of Trump’s second term – comes at a politically charged moment, with sharp partisan divisions ahead of midterm elections. The president is expected to frame his agenda around the theme “America at 250: Strong, Prosperous and Respected,” marking the upcoming 250th anniversary of US independence.

Trump is set to tout tax cuts, deregulation efforts and immigration enforcement policies while arguing that his agenda has strengthened economic growth and restored American influence abroad.

Foreign policy disputes, including tariff tensions following a recent Supreme Court ruling, and continued debate over immigration enforcement are likely to shape the political backdrop to the speech.

Rising tensions with Iran are also expected to feature, as Washington ramps up military deployments in the Middle East while pursuing last-ditch diplomatic talks over Tehran’s nuclear programme. US officials have indicated the president could outline next steps ranging from renewed negotiations to potential military action if talks fail.

Democrats are preparing a coordinated response, with Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger set to deliver the party’s official rebuttal later tonight, as several lawmakers boycott the address in protest.