WASHINGTON - President Donald Trump is set to deliver a major address to a joint session of Congress on Tuesday evening, amid significant policy shifts and growing economic uncertainty following his first weeks back in office.

The speech comes as new 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports took effect Tuesday morning, alongside increased 20% tariffs on Chinese goods [1,2]. The White House indicated Trump's theme will focus on the 'renewal of the American dream.'

Several major policy changes frame the address:

A freeze on U.S. military assistance to Ukraine, ending years of support against Russian invasion [1,2]Stalled negotiations for extending the Israel-Hamas ceasefire [1]Widespread federal government workforce reductions [2]

'It's an opportunity for President Trump to lay out the last month of record-setting, record-breaking, unprecedented achievements and accomplishments,' stated senior adviser Stephen Miller [1].

The speech has drawn varied responses from Congress. While House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed support, many Democrats are highlighting impacts of recent policies by inviting affected federal workers as guests [2]. Some Democratic representatives, including Rep. Gerry Connolly of Virginia, have declined to attend [1].

Notable attendees will include First Lady Melania Trump and several presidential guests, including Marc Fogel, recently released from Russian detention, and family members of fallen NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller [3].

The address occurs against a backdrop of nationwide protests, with demonstrations planned across all 50 states [1,2,3].