On Tuesday night, President Donald Trump is set to present his initial joint congressional address in his second term in office. While this occasion isn’t formally recognized as the State of the Union— a title typically applied to a president’s yearly speech to Congress during other times of an administration—it offers Trump a platform to outline his priorities for the coming year.
The address is scheduled to commence at 9 p.m. ET. Multiple networks have announced plans to broadcast the speech live on their channels and streaming platforms, featuring special coverage both preceding and following the event. The delivery of the speech will occur in the U.S. House chamber, which is spacious enough to accommodate both House and Senate members, along with other dignitaries generally invited to such events.
Attendees of the speech will include U.S. Supreme Court justices and members of Trump’s Cabinet. One Cabinet member, known as the “designated survivor,” will be absent, a precautionary measure to ensure continuity of government leadership should an unforeseen disaster occur. Additionally, the president usually invites guests who watch from the balcony above the House floor, seated alongside the first lady. These guests may have personal relationships with the president or represent an issue he intends to spotlight during his speech. For instance, in his initial joint address back in 2017, Trump invited the widow of late Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, as well as the widows of two California police officers tragically killed by an undocumented immigrant.
Following the presidential address, the Democratic Party is prepared to deliver a counter-message. This year, Michigan Sen. Elissa Slotkin, who has formerly served in the House, will voice the Democratic response, a presentation that will also be televised. Slotkin’s response is anticipated to emphasize economic matters. Moreover, the party has chosen Rep. Adriano Espaillat of New York, chair of the Hispanic Caucus, to offer a Spanish-language counter-speech.
As for nomenclature, the speech isn’t termed the State of the Union due to traditions associated with this event, which generally reflect on the past year’s activities. Given that Trump recently stepped into office again on January 20th, having only been in office this term for slightly over a month, this speech aims to look ahead, highlighting legislative goals. Historically, newly inaugurated presidents utilize first-year joint congressional addresses to discuss their legislative vision, typically making numerous policy proposals.
