President Trump to Address Joint Session of Congress: What to Expect
President Donald Trump is scheduled to deliver a joint address to Congress on Tuesday evening, marking a significant moment early in his second term. While technically not designated as a State of the Union address, the event holds similar weight and is expected to outline the President’s policy priorities and vision for the nation’s future.
House Speaker Mike Johnson extended the invitation to President Trump in January, framing the address as an opportunity to share his "America First vision" for upcoming legislative endeavors. The address is slated for March 4, 2025, and will take place in the House chamber of the U.S. Capitol.
Traditionally, U.S. presidents use this annual address to provide a comprehensive report to Congress on the state of the nation. This includes highlighting key achievements, outlining future goals, and presenting plans for the year ahead. The address is typically delivered within the first few months of the year and is broadcast nationally, capturing the attention of a wide audience.
This particular address is especially noteworthy as it will be President Trump’s first such speech during his second term. The nation will be keenly watching to see the direction he intends to steer the country over the next four years.
How to Watch the Address and Coverage Details
President Trump’s address from the U.S. Capitol is scheduled to begin around 9 p.m. ET on Tuesday. Multiple media outlets will provide live coverage, ensuring widespread access to the event.
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USA TODAY: The event will be streamed live on USA TODAY’s YouTube channel.
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CNN: CNN will offer special coverage titled "Presidential Address to Congress and Democratic Response" from approximately 9-11 p.m. ET. The coverage will be available on CNN, CNN connected TV and mobile apps, and CNN.com. Max subscribers will also be able to stream it live on Max.
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ABC News: ABC News will provide special coverage of the address from 9-11 p.m. EST on ABC and ABC News Live, Disney+, and Hulu. Anchor David Muir will lead the comprehensive coverage, reporting on the highlights and providing analysis following the speeches. The address can be streamed on Hulu.
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Fox News: Fox News will present special live coverage of President Trump’s address before a joint session of Congress, starting at 9 p.m. ET. Coverage will be available on Fox News Channel, Fox Business Network, Fox Network and all Fox affiliates, and Fox Nation. A live blog with minute-to-minute updates will also be available on FOXNews.com.
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CBS News: CBS News will have comprehensive all-day coverage featuring live reporting and analysis from CBS News’ Washington and political teams. The network will simulcast Trump’s address and the Democratic response from 9-11 p.m. ET. CBS coverage will be available on CBSNews.com, the CBS News app, CBS YouTube channel, social platforms, Paramount+ and Pluto. The address can be streamed on Paramount+.
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NBC News: NBC managing editor Lester Holt and "TODAY" co-anchor Savannah Guthrie will anchor NBC’s special coverage of Trump’s address at 9 p.m. ET. The coverage will be available across NBC, NBC News NOW, and NBCNews.com. NBC News NOW can be accessed via multiple streaming platforms, including Peacock, YouTube, Samsung TV Plus, the Roku Channel, NBCNews.com, and the NBC News app. NBCNews.com and the NBC News app will also feature a live blog of Trump’s address and the Democratic response. The address can be streamed on Peacock.
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NewsNation: NewsNation will air Trump’s address at 9 p.m. ET, followed by a special report from chief Washington anchor Leland Vittert, who will be joined by political editor Chris Stirewalt and The Hill’s Blake Burman. NewsNation viewers can also watch the Inauguration live via the NewsNation app and get updates and in-depth analysis on NewsNationNow.com.
The Setting and Key Attendees
State of the Union addresses, and in this case, the joint congressional address, are traditionally held in the House chamber of the U.S. Capitol. The chamber is divided into two sections and can accommodate approximately 950 people.
Members of both the House and Senate will be in attendance, along with members of the Supreme Court. Vice President JD Vance, in his role as president of the Senate, will be seated at the dais behind President Trump, alongside House Speaker Mike Johnson. Elon Musk and First Lady Melania Trump will also be present, watching from the House chamber, as confirmed by the White House.
Anticipated Topics and Tone
While the specific content of President Trump’s address remains to be seen, it is widely expected that he will touch upon key policy areas and outline his vision for the future. Potential topics include:
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The Economy: Economic growth, job creation, inflation, and trade policies are likely to be central themes. President Trump may highlight his administration’s achievements in these areas and outline plans to further stimulate economic activity.
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National Security: Foreign policy, defense spending, and counterterrorism efforts are also expected to be addressed. President Trump may discuss ongoing international challenges and reiterate his commitment to protecting U.S. interests.
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Immigration: Immigration policy remains a contentious issue, and President Trump is likely to address his administration’s approach to border security, visa programs, and immigration enforcement.
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Domestic Policy: Other domestic policy areas, such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure, may also be discussed. President Trump may outline his administration’s plans to address these issues and promote his vision for the country.
The tone of the address is also a subject of speculation. While President Trump has often adopted a combative and assertive style, it remains to be seen whether he will opt for a more conciliatory approach in this address. Given that this is the start of his second term, he may seek to project an image of unity and cooperation.
Regardless of the specific topics covered and the tone adopted, President Trump’s address to Congress is sure to be a significant event that will shape the political landscape for the coming year.
