Trump has a 'Designated survivor' for State of the Union speech 2026 — Inside the US tradition of Doomsday President

During the 2026 State of the Union address, then-President Donald Trump observed the longstanding tradition of designating a 'survivor' for national security purposes. This year, it was Mike Thompson who was chosen to remain in a secure location, away from the Capitol. The practice of having a designated survivor dates back to the Cold War era and is intended to ensure continuity of government in case of a catastrophic event. By keeping a high-ranking official in a protected site, the United States aims to safeguard its leadership during potential threats. This measure underscores the country's commitment to maintaining stability and security amidst uncertainties. The designated survivor tradition has been invoked during various significant events, reflecting the serious nature of national safety protocols in American governance.