President Joe Biden is set to deliver his annual State of the Union address on March 7. House Speaker Mike Johnson extended the formal invitation, emphasizing the significant challenges faced by the country.
Social Media Confirmation
President Biden accepted the invitation via the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), expressing anticipation for the event and thanking Speaker Johnson.
Speaker Johnson's First State of the Union
Speaker Johnson, in his first year as speaker, will sit behind the president during the address. This speech provides Biden with an opportunity to outline his broader vision and policy priorities as he seeks reelection in November.
Key Deadlines and Funding
Notably, Biden's address follows crucial deadlines to prevent a government shutdown. Funding for various federal agencies overseeing veterans, transportation, housing, agriculture, and energy expires on Jan. 19, while funding for the rest of the federal government, including the Pentagon and State Department, runs out on Feb. 2.
Historical Timing
Biden's March 7 address marks a departure from the usual late January or February schedule for the State of the Union. This will be the latest since 1934, when President Franklin D. Roosevelt reintroduced the practice of delivering the annual speech in person.
Prior Year's Commitments
In last year's State of the Union, Biden committed to advancing critical parts of his agenda, including addressing insulin costs, climate change, firearm regulations, and advocating for higher taxes on corporations and the wealthy. The speech took place in front of a divided Congress, with some House Republicans expressing dissent during certain parts of the address.