(NewsNation) — President Trump will give his first address to a joint session of a narrowly divided Congress since retaking the White House on Tuesday night.
The Trump administration says the theme will be the renewal of the American dream. It comes amid sweeping cuts to the federal government.
From the Republican side, there is anticipation to hear their party’s president come and deliver the address. but the Democrats are likely to push back.
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Some have decided to skip the address altogether, while others are planning a more nuanced approach. Discussion of former federal government workers who have been fired being brought in as guests.
There is a possibility of a more vocal protest inside the chamber while President Trump is speaking, despite Democratic leadership having cautioned against it.
“The last thing I’m concerned about as we are looking at the dismantling of government, taking away people’s health care, veteran benefits is the decorum of the House Democrats,” Rep. Katherine Clark, D-Mass., House Minority Whip told NewsNation.
“Our focus is on the American people and fighting for what they need.”
Earlier this week, the leader of the Democratic House caucus, Hakeem Jeffries, sent a “Dear colleague” letter to all of his members, noting that he and his leadership team are going to be in the chamber.
“To make clear to the nation that there is a strong opposition party ready, willing and able to serve as a check and balance on the excesses of the administration,” he wrote.
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“It is important to have a strong, determined and dignified Democratic presence in the chamber.”
Republican lawmakers want to see President Trump stick to the things that got him elected, such as attempting to reduce prices, reduce crime, handle the border and make America strong again overseas.
“If he delivers in those areas, he’ll be very successful,” Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., told NewsNation.
“I worry about some of the tertiary things he’s got himself involved with. They did not run on (those issues), in my view, and I think that hurts him.”
