
The New York Times did not feature President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address on the front page of its Wednesday print edition, instead leading with other domestic and international stories.
Although the paper’s well-known slogan proclaims it publishes “All the News That’s Fit to Print,” the most prominent headline across the top of the page focused on technology and global supply chains: “Reliance on Taiwan Chip Endangers U.S. Economy.”
Also displayed prominently on the upper portion of the front page was a large photograph of a Ukrainian soldier accompanying a report on the ongoing war with Russia, along with coverage of developments in Mexico following the death of cartel leader Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho.”
The only clear reference to the president appeared in a smaller sub-headline connected to the Mexico article, which included the name “Trump,” just hours after he had delivered a nationally televised address to Congress.
Additional front-page stories included “Epstein Sought Customs Perks For Private Isle,” focusing on late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein; “They’re for ICE, But Go NIMBY on Warehouses,” examining opposition to the Department of Homeland Security’s use of warehouse facilities for illegal immigrants; and “A.I. Literacy Test: Don’t Let It Think for You.”
Another eleven articles were previewed at the bottom of the page, none of which addressed Trump or his speech.
The absence of coverage stood in contrast to the length and breadth of Trump’s Tuesday night remarks, which lasted more than an hour and outlined his administration’s priorities on border security, economic performance, energy production and America’s standing abroad.
During the address, Trump pointed to what he called record improvements in immigration enforcement, asserting that unlawful border crossings had dropped sharply since his return to office.
He reiterated his demand for stricter immigration measures and greater resources for Immigration and Customs Enforcement, drawing sustained applause from Republican lawmakers present in the chamber.
Turning to the economy, Trump cited higher wages, slowing inflation and a rallying stock market as proof that his policies are working.
He attributed those developments to tax reductions, regulatory rollbacks and increased domestic energy output, which he said have encouraged investment and bolstered the strength of the U.S. dollar.
On foreign affairs, the president reaffirmed support for Israel, described ongoing efforts to help end the war in Ukraine and emphasized a doctrine of “peace through strength” aimed at deterring adversaries including China and Iran.
While television networks and cable news channels led their coverage with highlights and analysis of the speech — and critics rapidly fact-checked portions of it — the Times’ choice not to prominently feature the address drew reaction from conservative commentators online.
Backers of the president argued that overlooking a State of the Union speech reflects what they see as a pattern of media bias against Trump and his policies.
Others responded that print newspapers frequently emphasize investigative reporting and international developments on their front pages, particularly when speeches receive widespread digital and broadcast attention.
{Matzav.com}