President Trump’s Speech to a Joint Session of Congress: A Night of Unity and Recognition
President Trump is set to address a joint session of Congress on Tuesday night, marking his first speech before lawmakers since returning to the White House six weeks ago. The event, scheduled to begin at 9 p.m. ET, promises to be a significant moment in the political landscape. While the speech itself is highly anticipated, the guest list invited by First Lady Melania Trump has already captured the nation’s attention. These guests represent a diverse range of stories, struggles, and triumphs, reflecting the themes of unity, resilience, and the everyday American experience.
Everyday Heroes and Personal Stories Take Center Stage
Among the guests are individuals whose personal stories resonate deeply with the American people. Marc and Melanie Fogel, a Pennsylvania schoolteacher and his wife, will attend the address. Marc was recently released from a Russian prison in February as part of a prisoner swap negotiated by the Trump administration. Their presence is a testament to the human impact of diplomatic efforts and the enduring spirit of hope and resilience.
Also in attendance will be the family of Corey Comperatore, a volunteer fire chief and Trump supporter who tragically lost his life during an assassination attempt on the president at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Their presence serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who support the president and his policies.
Stephanie Diller, the widow of slain New York Police Department officer Jonathan Diller, will also be at the speech. Officer Diller was killed during a routine traffic stop in Queens in 2024, and President Trump attended his wake, showing his support for law enforcement and their families. These guests highlight the administration’s focus on public safety and its commitment to honoring the sacrifices of first responders.
Immigration and Border Security: A Key Theme of the Evening
Immigration is expected to be a central theme of President Trump’s speech, as it has been a cornerstone of his administration’s agenda. The guest list reflects this focus, with several individuals whose stories are closely tied to border security and immigration policy.
One such guest is Alexis Nungaray, a Texas woman whose 12-year-old daughter was tragically murdered in 2024. The suspects in her daughter’s death are two Venezuelan nationals who were released by immigration authorities before the crime occurred. Nungaray has since become an advocate for stricter immigration policies and has joined President Trump at several campaign events. Her story underscores the administration’s push for tougher enforcement and its efforts to connect with families affected by crime.
The mother and sister of Laken Riley, a 22-year-old nursing student who was murdered by a man in the country illegally, will also be in attendance. President Trump recently signed the Laken Riley Act, a bipartisan bill that expands the federal government’s ability to detain individuals in the country illegally. Their presence serves as a reminder of the human cost of unsecured borders and the administration’s efforts to address this issue.
Technology, Safety, and the Challenges of Modern Life
In addition to immigration, the guest list highlights other pressing issues, including the challenges posed by technology and the need for greater safety measures. One such guest is 15-year-old Elliston Berry, who was the victim of deepfake technology created by a bully at her school. Melania Trump has thrown her support behind a bill sponsored by Sen. Ted Cruz to bolster safety against deepfakes, and Elliston’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the need for greater protections in the digital age.
Another guest is January Littlejohn, a Florida mother who sued her daughter’s middle school for asking her daughter which bathroom she wanted to use, reportedly without her knowledge or permission. President Trump has already signed an executive order restricting access to gender-affirming care for minors, and Littlejohn’s presence underscores the administration’s focus on these issues.
Payton McNabb, a North Carolina teen who says she was injured during a collision with a transgender athlete in a volleyball game, will also attend the speech. President Trump has signed an executive order banning transgender women from competing in women’s sports, and McNabb’s story reflects the ongoing debates around fairness and inclusion in athletics.
Everyday Americans and Unsung Heroes
In addition to those with high-profile stories, the guest list includes everyday Americans who represent the unsung heroes of the nation. Jeff Denard, a steelworker from Decatur, Alabama, will be in attendance, representing the backbone of America’s manufacturing and industrial sectors. His presence highlights the administration’s focus on American jobs and economic growth.
Haley Ferguson, a Tennessee woman who received a Fostering the Future scholarship through Melania Trump’s Be Best initiative, will also attend. The scholarship program aims to support youth aging out of foster care, and Ferguson’s story showcases the impact of the First Lady’s efforts to improve outcomes for children and families.
Roberto Ortiz, a Border Patrol agent from Texas who has been shot at by cartel members, rounds out the list of guests. His presence serves as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of those who work to secure the nation’s borders.
A Night of Unity and Celebration
While the speech itself is expected to address a wide range of policy issues, the guest list serves as a reminder of the power of unity and the importance of recognizing the everyday Americans who make this nation great. From the Fogels to the Littlejohns, these guests represent a cross-section of the American experience, with all its challenges and triumphs.
As the nation tunes in to watch the speech, it is not just about the policies or the politics—it is about the people who make America the land of opportunity and hope. The stories of these guests remind us that, despite our differences, we are all part of the same American story. President Trump’s speech, and the guests who will join him, promise to be a powerful reminder of that unity.
How to Watch and What to Expect
For those who want to watch the speech, CBS News will carry the address live on TV, with a primetime special beginning at 9 p.m. ET. The speech will also be streamed for free on CBS News 24/7, available on CBSNews.com, the CBS News app, and Paramount+. With a guest list that reflects the diversity and complexity of the American experience, this speech has the potential to be a defining moment in the current political climate.
