Trump's Holiday Address: A 2026 Campaign Preview? Blames Biden, Touts Economy

• Donald Trump's nationally televised address, days before Christmas, was widely seen as an early campaign pitch for the 2026 elections.
• He repeatedly blamed former US President Joe Biden for current economic and social difficulties, including rising costs, crime, and immigration.
• Trump defended his economic agenda, claiming inflation is easing and investment is growing, despite mixed public economic indicators.
• A key announcement was a $1,776 "warrior dividend" one-time payment to 1.45 million active-duty US military personnel.
• The speech, delivered from the Diplomatic Reception Room, had a combative, partisan tone, revisiting old grievances and largely ignoring foreign policy.

Why It Matters: Trump's holiday address served as an early 2026 campaign preview, blaming Biden and promoting his economic narrative.