President Donald Trump is scheduled to give his first second-term speech to Congress on Tuesday.
While it’s not a State of the Union speech, this address will allow Trump to boast of his administration‘s rapid pace and accomplishments after 1 1/2 months in charge.
Here is everything to know ahead of the pivotal address:
When is it, and how do I watch it?
The speech is scheduled to begin on the floor of Congress at 9 p.m. on Tuesday, March 4.
The address will be aired by most major news stations, including Fox News.
How is it different from the State of the Union?
While the format will be similar, Trump’s speech on Tuesday isn’t a State of the Union address because he hasn’t been in office long enough. Trump’s speech this week also isn’t required by law, while an annual State of the Union address is.
Addresses to a joint session of Congress are relatively common, particularly in response to major events. While Friday’s contentious Oval Office meeting between Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is likely to be featured in the speech, it was planned well before the blowup.
Trump’s second administration has been notable for its feverish pace, with so many moves undertaken that Democrats have struggled to respond. His changes to U.S. international diplomacy, the federal government, and the law have been some of the most drastic and fast-paced of any modern presidency, especially compared to his first term. Tuesday’s speech will allow him to explain and defend his bold moves.
Who will be in attendance?
Supreme Court justices are expected to attend the address on Tuesday. As is the case in past State of the Union addresses, the vice president and speaker of the House, Vance and Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA), will sit behind the president.
The guest list has become a lightning rod for messaging, particularly for Democrats, who have struggled to regain their footing after blistering losses in November.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) privately asked Democrats to fill their guest list for Trump’s first speech to Congress with people affected by the Trump administration’s federal job cuts, according to Axios. Those affected by programs cut by Trump and the Department of Government Efficiency are expected to be in attendance.
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Some people expected to attend, according to the outlet, include a child with a genetic spinal condition who was saved through a National Institutes of Health program that was cut and a veteran close to retirement who was fired from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
The White House may also invite citizens with specific backgrounds to highlight its achievements and goals.
This article was originally published at www.washingtonexaminer.com
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