House Speaker Mike Johnson has formally invited President Donald Trump to deliver the State of the Union address before a Joint Session of Congress on February 24, 2026, marking what would be Trump’s first official State of the Union in his second term.

In his invitation letter, Johnson praised Trump’s leadership, stating, “As our nation marks the Semiquincentennial Anniversary of American Independence, the United States stands stronger, freer, and more prosperous under your leadership and bold action.” The Speaker highlighted what he described as a productive partnership between the administration and Congress, claiming they have “delivered one of the most consequential agendas in history.”

The invitation comes as the Trump administration approaches its second year in office. While Trump addressed a Joint Session of Congress on March 4, 2025, less than two months after his inauguration, that speech was not formally designated as a State of the Union address, which typically occurs annually.

Johnson’s letter expressed anticipation for continued collaboration, noting that Congress looks forward to “the important work ahead of us in 2026, serving the American people, defending liberty, and preserving this grand experiment in self-governance.”

The State of the Union address represents a constitutionally-enshrined tradition where the President reports to Congress on the condition of the nation and outlines legislative priorities. In the modern era, these speeches have evolved into major televised events that reach millions of Americans and provide presidents with a prime opportunity to communicate their vision directly to the public.

Trump’s previous address to Congress in March 2025 was not without controversy. During that speech, Representative Al Green, a Democrat from Texas, was ejected from the House chamber following an outburst early in the president’s remarks. Such partisan tensions have become increasingly common during these addresses in recent years, reflecting the polarized nature of American politics.

In that March address, Trump characterized his 2024 election victory as a “mandate” for his agenda, setting the tone for his second administration’s approach to governance. The upcoming February 2026 address will likely build on these themes while offering insight into the administration’s priorities for the remainder of the term.

The 2026 State of the Union will take place during a significant year for the United States, coinciding with the Semiquincentennial, or 250th anniversary of American independence. This milestone adds symbolic weight to the address, potentially providing Trump with an opportunity to frame his policies within the context of American history and tradition.

The White House has not yet publicly responded to Speaker Johnson’s invitation, though presidents typically accept such invitations as a matter of course.

The timing of the address in late February follows the traditional calendar for State of the Union speeches, which are usually delivered in January or February. The specific date allows the administration time to develop a comprehensive agenda for the coming year while giving Congress the opportunity to act on presidential priorities throughout the legislative session.

As preparations for the address begin, political analysts will be watching closely for signals about the administration’s legislative priorities and how they might shape congressional action in an important election year, with midterm contests approaching that could affect the balance of power in Washington.