Ann Arbor Times

President Trump is set to address a joint session of Congress on Tuesday, six weeks into his presidency. This speech, expected to last around 90 minutes, will provide an opportunity for the president to discuss various issues such as tariffs, tax cuts, Ukraine, and immigration in more detail than his inauguration speech allowed.

Aaron Kall, a speech and debate expert from the University of Michigan and editor of “Mr. Speaker, the President of the United States: Addresses to a Joint Session of Congress,” highlighted that it is common for newly elected presidents to address Congress within their first few months in office. Although not technically a State of the Union address, this high-profile speech typically reaches millions of Americans and allows presidents to showcase recent accomplishments while outlining legislative goals. "President Trump likely won’t command such a large viewing audience again until his 2026 State of the Union address," Kall noted. With narrow Republican majorities in Congress, this address serves as an opportunity for the president to emphasize important agenda items.

While excerpts from such speeches are often leaked beforehand, making policy surprises rare, there remains potential for genuine news during these events. President Trump has been known to deviate from prepared remarks in similar settings. The event may also feature exchanges between the president and audience members.

Following Trump's speech, Democrats will have a chance to offer a rebuttal. New Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin has been chosen unexpectedly for this task. Delivering the rebuttal is considered challenging due to its timing and smaller audience size compared to the president's address. However, Slotkin’s bipartisan background and national security credentials make her a strong counterweight to President Trump. "She will likely have a laser-like focus on economic and kitchen table issues," Kall stated, adding that she would also defend Ukrainian democratic efforts amidst recent tensions involving President Zelensky.