President Donald Trump is set to deliver a speech to a Joint Session of Congress, with Democratic Senator Elissa Slotkin of Michigan chosen to provide the party’s response. Slotkin, described as a rising star by Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, will offer the Democratic rebuttal following Trump’s address. Although not designated as a State of the Union speech, Trump’s upcoming congressional address will outline his vision for the nation. Slotkin emphasized the importance of addressing various national issues to improve people’s lives.

Elissa Slotkin, aged 48, is a Democratic senator from Michigan with a background as a former CIA analyst who served in Iraq and held national security roles in the Pentagon and White House under previous administrations. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2018 before winning a senatorial seat in 2024, Slotkin campaigned on reducing costs for American families.

To watch Trump’s address and Slotkin’s rebuttal, USA TODAY will stream the event live on YouTube, along with coverage from multiple news outlets. The speech is scheduled to begin at 9 p.m. ET, followed by Slotkin’s response. The upcoming addresses present an opportunity for emerging party leaders like Slotkin to showcase their perspectives on key national issues.