Fox News Channel dominated television ratings during former President Donald Trump’s recent joint address to Congress, drawing in a staggering 10.7 million viewers. 

The network far outperformed both its broadcast and cable news competitors, solidifying its position as the most-watched source for coverage of the highly anticipated speech.

The address, which aired from 9:15 to 11:00 p.m. ET, marked the longest speech of its kind by any U.S. president. 

When factoring in additional viewership from other Fox platforms—including the FOX network and FOX Business—the total audience swelled to approximately 13.8 million.

Fox News Crushes the Competition

The three major broadcast networks lagged significantly behind in viewership. 

ABC attracted 6.3 million total viewers, while CBS and NBC drew in four million and 3.9 million viewers, respectively.

On the cable news front, both CNN and MSNBC failed to surpass the two-million viewer mark. Each network pulled in around 1.9 million total viewers, but CNN edged out MSNBC in the coveted 25-54 demographic, securing 585,000 viewers compared to MSNBC’s 237,000.

Fox News claimed an overwhelming 74% of the total cable news audience and captured 70% of the key demographic share, demonstrating its continued dominance over its rivals.

Post-Address Coverage Keeps Fox News on Top

Fox News continued to lead even after Trump’s speech concluded. Between 11:00 and 11:30 p.m., during which networks aired post-address analysis and the Democratic response delivered by Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin, Fox News retained the largest audience.

During this period, Fox News amassed 6.4 million total viewers, including more than one million in the key demographic. In contrast, MSNBC brought in 2.2 million total viewers, with 233,000 in the 25-54 age bracket, while CNN recorded 1.4 million total viewers and 362,000 in the demo.

Anchors Bret Baier and Martha MacCallum helmed Fox News’ special coverage, joined by The Five co-hosts Dana Perino and Harold Ford Jr., senior political analyst Brit Hume, and FOX Business host Larry Kudlow.

A Speech Marked by Tension and Dramatic Moments

Trump’s address was not without controversy. The speech began on an intense note when Representative Al Green, a Democrat from Texas, was escorted out of the House chamber after interrupting the proceedings with loud outbursts directed at the former president.

During his speech, Trump took the opportunity to criticize Democratic lawmakers, accusing them of refusing to acknowledge his achievements.

“This is my fifth such speech to Congress, and once again, I look at the Democrats in front of me and realize there is absolutely nothing I can say to make them happy, or to make them stand or smile or applaud—nothing I can do,” Trump remarked.

He went on to suggest that even if he were to announce historic accomplishments—such as discovering a cure for a devastating disease, achieving record-breaking economic success, or reducing crime to unprecedented lows—Democrats would still refuse to acknowledge his efforts.

“For just this one night, why not join us in celebrating so many incredible wins for America?” he challenged. “For the good of our nation, let’s work together and truly make America great again.”

Memorable Moments That Stole the Spotlight

Beyond the political back-and-forth, Trump’s speech featured several emotional and headline-making moments.

One particularly moving segment involved 13-year-old brain cancer survivor DJ Daniel, whom Trump made an honorary Secret Service agent during the address. The crowd erupted in applause as the young boy was recognized.

Another touching moment occurred when Trump acknowledged Alexis Nungaray, the mother of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray, who was tragically murdered by illegal immigrants. He announced that his administration would be renaming Texas’ Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge in Jocelyn’s memory.

Additionally, Trump paid tribute to Marc Fogel, an American teacher who was recently rescued from a Russian prison under his administration. He invited Fogel’s 95-year-old mother, Malphine, to the event, recognizing her for her persistent efforts to secure her son’s release.

Finally, the former president honored the family of Corey Comperatore, a firefighter who was killed while protecting his loved ones at a rally where Trump himself narrowly escaped an assassination attempt.

Fox News Continues Its Ratings Dominance

Trump’s address was not only a significant political event but also a television ratings triumph for Fox News. The network’s commanding viewership numbers reaffirmed its stronghold as the go-to destination for coverage of major political moments.

With an audience that far outpaced its competitors, Fox News once again demonstrated its influence in shaping the national conversation—particularly when it comes to coverage of Trump, a figure who continues to command widespread attention.

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