House Concurrent Resolution 11 has officially set the date for President Donald J. Trump’s first State of the Union (SOTU) address of his second term. The speech will take place on March 4, 2025, at 9:00 PM, before a joint session of Congress in the House Chamber of the U.S. Capitol.
A Historic SOTU Date and the 20th Amendment
While the State of the Union address is traditionally delivered in January or February, this year’s speech is scheduled for March 4—a date with significant historical relevance.
Prior to the ratification of the 20th Amendment in 1933, March 4 was the official Inauguration Day for U.S. presidents. This meant that between Election Day in November and the new president taking office in March, there was a long, four-month “lame-duck” period where outgoing presidents had limited authority, and newly elected leaders had to wait to implement their policies.
The 20th Amendment changed this, moving the presidential inauguration from March 4 to January 20 to shorten this gap and allow new administrations to take office more swiftly. Since then, March 4 has lost its formal role in American government, making its selection for the 2025 State of the Union address a unique and symbolic choice.
Scheduling the State of the Union on March 4, 2025, may reflect both logistical considerations and historical awareness, potentially linking President Trump’s return to office with a tradition from America’s earlier political era.
What to Expect in the Address
The State of the Union provides the president with a platform to outline national priorities, propose legislative goals, and deliver a message to the American people about the administration’s vision. Given the deep political divisions in Washington, this address is expected to highlight key themes such as:
- Economic Policies & Job Growth – Trump has previously focused on tax cuts, deregulation, and economic expansion. His speech will likely emphasize continued job creation and energy production.
- Border Security & Immigration – A major issue in his previous term, expect firm policies on border enforcement and legal immigration reforms.
- Foreign Policy & National Security – The president may outline strategies on China, Russia, and NATO, along with military spending and defense initiatives.
- Legislative Priorities – With a new Republican-controlled Congress, Trump may push for education reforms, tax policies, healthcare adjustments, and Second Amendment protections.
Speaker Johnson’s Invitation & Congressional Reception
House Speaker Mike Johnson formally extended the invitation to President Trump, emphasizing that America is experiencing a resurgence of patriotism, unity, and hope. Johnson expressed confidence that the Trump administration and the 119th Congress could achieve significant legislative victories.
In accordance with congressional protocol, the Vice President, JD Vance, will also be present in his role as President of the Senate, sitting alongside Speaker Johnson during the address.
While Republicans are expected to fully support the president’s legislative agenda, Democrats may push back against policies they see as controversial, particularly in areas such as climate policy, social spending, and foreign diplomacy.
A Speech That Will Set the Tone for 2025
The March 4, 2025, State of the Union will be one of the most closely watched political events of the year, as it will define the early months of President Trump’s second term. The speech is likely to rally Trump’s supporters, set the tone for his administration’s next steps, and signal upcoming legislative battles in Congress.
With all eyes on Washington, the nation awaits what will undoubtedly be a high-impact address from the 47th President of the United States.
📅 Mark your calendar: March 4, 2025, at 9:00 PM EST.
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