Trump will address the nation: deal with the decline in the polls, or preview New Year's policies

Mr. Trump said on social media that he would deliver a prime-time address to the nation at 9pm EST on Wednesday (10am Beijing time on Thursday). The speech comes at a critical juncture towards the end of Mr. Trump's first year back in the White House, as his approval ratings slide and the economy faces headwinds. Over the past year, Mr. Trump has focused on reshaping America's economic and national security relationship. He has slapped tariffs on trading partners and key industries, and has clashed fiercely with allies over defence spending, immigration and the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. At home, he has repeatedly tested the boundaries of executive power, pushed for a shake-up of the federal government, and mass deportations of undocumented immigrants and tightened legal entry channels. The speech provided a platform for Mr. Trump to emphasise his record and set out his priorities for the coming year as Republicans battle to retain control of Congress in November's midterm elections, which typically result in the president's party losing seats in Congress. The White House revealed that Mr. Trump would address his historic achievement, discuss future prospects and perhaps foretell New Year's policies.