Trump to Deliver First Address of Second Term

President Donald Trump will address Congress tonight at 9 p.m. ET marking his first joint speech since reclaiming the White House. The event outlines his agenda for a second term with Republicans holding majorities in both chambers amid debates over border security and government efficiency. House Speaker Mike Johnson invited Trump to share his America First vision fueling anticipation for a bold policy push.

Trump’s speech follows a rapid start to his term with executive orders targeting illegal immigration and federal spending cuts. Advisors say he will emphasize economic growth and national security while touting early wins like DOGE’s streamlining efforts led by Elon Musk. The address offers a chance to rally GOP lawmakers around his legislative goals after a divisive election cycle.

Unlike a State of the Union this joint address allows Trump to set the tone early without the formalities of an annual report. Analysts expect him to spotlight plans for tax relief and energy independence leveraging GOP control to fast-track bills. Critics warn his focus on deregulation could overshadow pressing domestic needs like infrastructure or health care reform.

The White House has kept the speech’s details under wraps though aides hint at a muscular foreign policy stance to counter China and Russia. Trump’s past addresses leaned heavily on populist themes often drawing sharp partisan reactions from the chamber. Tonight’s tone could signal how he navigates a unified Republican Congress versus his first term’s split government.

Democrats plan a rebuttal led by Senator Elissa Slotkin who will challenge Trump’s priorities from a Midwestern swing-state perspective. Her response aims to contrast his approach with calls for bipartisan solutions on jobs and climate issues. The partisan divide promises a lively night as both sides vie to shape public views on Trump’s renewed leadership.

Guests invited by Trump and lawmakers will fill the galleries highlighting personal stories tied to his agenda like border patrol agents or small business owners. These symbolic attendees often amplify the night’s messaging for millions watching at home. Networks report viewership may dip from his 2017 debut due to familiarity though political stakes remain sky-high.

Congress faces a tight deadline to fund the government past March 14 adding urgency to Trump’s legislative asks tonight. Republicans aim to extend 2017 tax cuts and boost defense spending while Democrats push back on cuts to social programs. The address could preview how Trump wields his party’s slim House majority to avoid a shutdown showdown.

Trump’s return to the Capitol carries echoes of his first term when bold promises met mixed results in a polarized Washington. Supporters hope his experience and GOP unity deliver more than his initial tenure’s stalled efforts like the border wall. By night’s end his words will test whether he can convert campaign rhetoric into a governing blueprint for 2025 and beyond.