Theatrical address is Maga at its worst

IF the State of the Union is meant to take a nation’s pulse, Donald Trump's address felt less like a health check and more like watching a patient argue with the results of a CT scan.

- BY CHRISTOPHER BUCKTIN

For nearly two hours, the US President stood before Congress and attempted to bend reality.

Self-congratulation poured freely and relentlessly - untethered and unrecognisable to the lives that most Americans lead.

Republicans jumped to their feet on command, applauding with the enthusiasm of a Jerry Springer audience promised a punch-up.

What unfolded was a familiar routine - a Maga greatest-hits album doused with cheap theatrics and marinated in emotional bait. Medals were handed out like party bags at a kid's birthday bash.