The Annual State of the Union
The most famous reason for a joint session is the president's State of the Union address. The U.S. Constitution requires the president to 'from time to time give to the Congress Information of the State of the Union'. While early presidents often submitted this as a written report, President Woodrow Wilson revived the practice of delivering it as a speech in 1913. Today, it’s a major televised event where the president outlines their legislative agenda and reports on the nation's status. However, newly inaugurated presidents don't give a 'State of the Union'; instead, they deliver an 'Address to a Joint Session' to lay out their vision early in their first term.
Counting the Electoral Votes
A joint session is a constitutional requirement for finalizing a presidential election.
According to the Twelfth Amendment and federal law, the House and Senate must gather on January 6 following a presidential election to formally count the electoral votes submitted by the states. This session is presided over by the sitting vice president in their capacity as president of the Senate. The first-ever joint session of Congress was for this very purpose on April 6, 1789, to certify George Washington's election. While often a formality, this session serves as the final step in affirming the election's outcome.
Hearing from Foreign Leaders and Dignitaries
Congress often extends invitations to foreign heads of state, monarchs, and other global leaders to address a 'joint meeting', a similar but slightly less formal gathering. These addresses are a powerful tool of public diplomacy, offering allies a prestigious platform to speak directly to America's legislative branch and, by extension, the American people. The first foreign leader to receive this honor was King Kalakaua of Hawaii in 1874. Since then, figures like Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela, and Pope Francis have addressed Congress, underscoring key international relationships and global moments.
Moments of National Crisis or Urgency
Presidents may also request a joint session to address the nation during times of crisis or to rally support for a major new initiative. These speeches are some of the most memorable in American history. For instance, President Franklin D. Roosevelt delivered his 'Day of Infamy' speech to a joint session on December 8, 1941, following the attack on Pearl Harbor, leading to a declaration of war. Similarly, President George W. Bush addressed a joint session shortly after the September 11, 2001 attacks to outline the nation's response and the start of the war on terror.
Is It a 'Joint Session' or a 'Joint Meeting'?
While often used interchangeably, there is a technical difference. A 'joint session' is more formal and is convened to conduct official constitutional business, such as counting electoral votes or hearing the State of the Union. These require a concurrent resolution passed by both chambers. A 'joint meeting' is typically for ceremonial occasions, like an address from a foreign leader, and is organized through a unanimous consent agreement in each chamber. In both cases, the event usually takes place in the larger House chamber to accommodate all the attendees.
