“One Nation Under God”: Trump Frames Religion as Pillar of National Comeback
At the February 24, 2026, State of the Union Address, President Donald Trump delivered a detailed review of his administration’s accomplishments and priorities, blending economic policy, national security, and cultural themes with a pronounced emphasis on faith and religious renewal. Trump framed the United States’ recent progress as part of a broader “comeback,” claiming that under his leadership “there has been a tremendous renewal in religion, faith, Christianity, and belief in God,” and asserting that this resurgence was particularly evident among younger Americans.
Throughout the address, Trump tied this message of faith to his broader vision of American identity and national purpose, describing the resurgence of religion as something “coming back at levels that nobody actually thought possible” and “a beautiful thing to see.” This God-focused theme was woven into his portrayal of national renewal alongside his policy achievements. Trump framed faith as a pillar of the national narrative, declaring, “We love religion, and we love bringing it back.”
President Trump recognized Charlie Kirk’s assassination and a spiritual awakening in America. He proclaimed, “we must all come together to reaffirm that America is one nation under God,” tying national unity to a shared belief in God and urging a total rejection of political violence.
Photo: The White House, February 25, 2026, Facebook, [Screenshot by Yorkville Herald], The White House
In what became the longest State of the Union Address in history, Trump framed the first year of his second term as a historic turnaround for the United States. He highlighted economic achievements such as lower inflation, a booming stock market, and falling energy prices, while urging support for further tax and cost-cutting policies. Trump also proposed dismantling the current income tax system, stating, “The tariffs paid for by foreign countries will, like in the past, substantially replace the modern-day system of income tax.”
Trump also recognized notable achievements and service, awarding the Medal of Freedom for athletic accomplishments and honoring military and civilian heroism with Purple Hearts, the Medal of Honor, and the Legion of Merit. Looking ahead to America’s 250th anniversary, he proclaimed, “Our future will be bigger, better, brighter, bolder, and more glorious than ever before.”
Photo: Rep. Lauren Underwood, February 25, 2026, Facebook, [Screenshot by Yorkville Herald], Rep. Lauren Underwood
Lauren Underwood, the representative for Illinois’ 14th District, who initially attended the address, left the chamber during the speech. In a Facebook video, she criticized Trump for downplaying the health care crisis and prescription drug issues, saying, “Give me a break. It’s outrageous, and I couldn’t stay in there a moment longer.”
Representative Underwood did not immediately respond to a request for comments.
Photo: Marter for Congress, February 25, 2026, [Screenshot by Yorkville Herald], https://marter4congress.us/
Republican challenger Jim Marter, who is running against Underwood for the 14th District seat, criticized her decision for walking out of the State of the Union Address. In a Facebook post, Marter said Underwood left “We the People in the 14th District without any Representation.” He went on to say, “She prefers putting money in the pockets of #BigPHARMA and #BigHEALTHCARE over you, in her efforts to keep the failed #Unaffordable Care Act afloat on your back and mine.”