President Donald Trump is scheduled to deliver a primetime address to the nation tonight, with expectations focusing on his administration’s economic policies and ongoing tensions with Venezuela. The White House has provided limited details about the speech, slated for 9 p.m. ET, though the president has indicated it will highlight the “accomplishments over the past 11 months” and plans for the future.

The address comes at a critical juncture, as recent polling suggests growing public dissatisfaction with Trump’s handling of the economy. A NPR/PBS News/Marist survey found that 57 percent of respondents disapprove of his economic management, marking the lowest rating of his second term. While Republican support remains high, independent voters express significant concern, with 68 percent disapproving of the economic outlook.

Adding to the geopolitical backdrop, Trump recently ordered a “total and complete” blockade of sanctioned oil tankers from Venezuela. This move is part of a broader strategy to pressure President Nicolas Maduro’s government. Venezuela holds the world’s largest known oil reserves, a significant factor in global energy markets and a key element of the administration’s foreign policy.

The president’s remarks are also being delivered amidst a backdrop of political maneuvering and commentary. California Governor Gavin Newsom and his team have publicly mocked the Trump administration, sharing satirical images of White House officials. Meanwhile, a new poll indicates a potential shift in the 2028 presidential election landscape, with New York Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez reportedly leading Vice President JD Vance in a head-to-head matchup.

For viewers hoping to tune in, the address will interrupt the broadcast of the “Survivor” season finale on CBS. The network has announced that the three-hour finale will begin at 8 p.m. ET and resume immediately after Trump’s speech for viewers in the Eastern and Central time zones. A special report on the address will also air on CBS.

Adding to the news cycle ahead of the speech, FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino announced his planned departure from his role early next year. Bongino, who has served a brief tenure as the bureau’s second-highest official, thanked the president and the American people for the opportunity to serve. His departure follows reports of clashes within the department over sensitive information.

Trump has previously stated that his administration “inherited a mess and we’ve done a great job,” signaling a likely theme of recovery and progress during his address. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has suggested the president might “tease some policy that will be coming in the new year,” hinting at future legislative initiatives.

The president’s decision to deliver a formal evening address from the White House is a departure from his typical rally-style appearances. This setting allows for a more controlled message as he prepares for the upcoming 2026 midterm elections, where the balance of power in Congress and the fate of his legislative agenda will be on the line.

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Keywords: Donald Trump speech, Venezuela oil sanctions, US economy poll, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez 2028 poll, JD Vance, Gavin Newsom Trump mockery, FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino, Survivor finale interruption