Trump’s Address to Congress: What to Expect

President Donald Trump will address a joint session of Congress tonight, marking his first speech before both chambers since returning to office six weeks ago. The theme is “The Renewal of the American Dream,” according to a White House official.

Key points to watch for:

• Economic policy and border security are likely to be major focuses
• Trump may highlight his administration’s efforts to reshape the federal bureaucracy alongside Elon Musk
• Immigration enforcement could be emphasized, given Trump’s campaign promises
• Changes to foreign policy and aid to Ukraine may be addressed

The speech is set to begin shortly after 9 p.m. ET. During his first term, Trump’s addresses to Congress averaged around 80 minutes.

Democrats have selected Sen. Elissa Slotkin of Michigan to deliver their official response following the president’s remarks.

"Time to put parents back in the driver's seat when it comes to their children's education!" – Tiffany Justice, Moms for Liberty co-founder

How Trump’s speech is received may provide early indications of his ability to advance key agenda items in his second term. With Republicans holding a narrow majority in Congress, the president faces both opportunities and challenges in implementing his vision.

Foreign Policy Shifts and International Relations

President Trump’s return to office has already had significant implications on the world stage. Some key developments to watch:

• A contentious meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy last week ended without a planned minerals deal being signed
• The White House announced a pause in military aid to Ukraine on Monday
• Trump has suggested he may meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin early in his term to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine

These moves signal a potential shift in U.S. foreign policy priorities. Trump has emphasized his desire to quickly end the Ukraine conflict, stating: “We have to end that war.”

Presidents As Kids!

Donald Trump – 45/47th President (2017-2020 / 2025-present)

Joe Biden – 46th President (2021-2024)

George W. Bush – 43rd President (2001–2009)

Jimmy Carter – 39th President (1977–1981)

Bill Clinton – 42nd President (1993–2001)

Gerald Ford – 38th President (1974–1977)

George H. W. Bush – 41st President (1989–1993)

John F. Kennedy – 35th President (1961–1963)

Lyndon B. Johnson – 36th President (1963–1969)

Richard Nixon – 37th President (1969–1974)

Barack Obama – 44th President (2009–2017)

Ronald Reagan – 40th President (1981–1989)

❮ ❯

The president’s approach to international trade also bears watching. He has proposed tariffs of 10% to 20% on foreign goods and pledged to block Chinese purchases of “any vital infrastructure” in the U.S.

Trump’s “America First” stance could reshape alliances and trade relationships. His speech may provide further insight into how the administration plans to balance national interests with international commitments.

Domestic Policy and Government Restructuring

President Trump’s domestic agenda focuses on reducing the federal government’s size and reshaping its operations. Key initiatives include:

• Eliminating the Department of Education
• Cutting regulations across economic sectors
• Ending diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in government institutions
• Reshaping immigration policy and enforcement

The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, is spearheading efforts to streamline government operations. This approach aligns with conservative principles and a strict interpretation of the U.S. Constitution.

On social issues, Trump has called for rolling back protections for LGBTQ citizens and ending federal recognition of more than two genders. He also proposes using federal funding to pressure schools into adopting merit pay for teachers and eliminating tenure.

As Trump addresses Congress, his articulation of these policies will shape expectations for the next four years. The speech may provide insights into how the administration plans to navigate potential legal and legislative hurdles to implement its vision.

1. Hoffman D, Howard A. Addressing the State of the Union: The Evolution and Impact of the President's Big Speech. Boulder, CO: Lynne Rienner Publishers; 2006. 2. American Presidency Project. Length of State of the Union Addresses in Minutes. University of California, Santa Barbara. 3. CBS News Poll. Views on Trump Administration Changes. January 2025. 4. Pew Research Center. Americans' News Consumption Habits. 2024.