Guide to Watching Trump's Joint Session of Congress Speech

On Tuesday, President Donald Trump will deliver his initial address to a joint session of Congress at the start of his second term.

This marks Trump's fifth public address to a congressional joint session, occurring as Republicans control the Presidency, House, and Senate.

Event Details

Timing of the Speech

The speech is scheduled for 9 p.m. Eastern Time (8 p.m. Central, 6 p.m. Pacific) on March 4.

House Speaker Mike Johnson extended an invitation to Trump, encouraging him to articulate his "America First vision for legislation."

Ways to Watch and Stream the Speech

ABC News will broadcast the speech live from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. ET on ABC, and it will be available for streaming on Disney+, Hulu, and other digital outlets.

Coverage will be hosted by 'World News Tonight' anchor David Muir, alongside Linsey Davis, Jonathan Karl, Martha Raddatz, Mary Bruce, Pierre Thomas, Rebecca Jarvis, Rachel Scott, Mireya Villarreal, and Jay O'Brien.

ABC News Digital will provide comprehensive coverage, including a live commentary blog that dives into the main points, key moments, expert analyses, and live fact-checking.

Understanding the Joint Session Address

Though similar to a State of the Union, Trump's forthcoming address is his first of the second term; hence, it is simply a speech to Congress.

Typically, State of the Union addresses occur during non-inaugural years and fulfill the presidential duty to periodically inform Congress about the nation's status.

Anticipated Topics of Trump's Address

As is customary for presidents, Trump is expected to outline his legislative agenda.

Key topics likely include combating perceived governmental overspending, immigration reform, foreign policies, and economic strategies.

Noteworthy Participants

The event will unite government branches, featuring Congress members, Supreme Court justices, the House Speaker, and Vice President behind the President.

Vice President JD Vance will assume his seat behind Trump for the very first time.

Historical footnote: In 2020, then-Speaker Nancy Pelosi dramatically tore Trump's speech copy post-address.

Guest lists from the White House will highlight individuals whose narratives underscore particular political topics.

Opposition Response from the Democratic Party

After Trump's speech, Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin will deliver the Democratic perspective.

Slotkin anticipates discussing genuine challenges Americans face, focusing on avenues for enhancing economic and national security.

A notable political figure, Slotkin has repeatedly secured election victories despite closely contested races.

Additionally, Congressman Adriano Espaillat will offer a response in Spanish, marking a first for a Dominican American who once lacked legal status.