A First-term Michigan Senator Is Set To Deliver The Democratic Response To Trump's Speech

The Democratic response to President Donald Trump's first joint congressional address of his second presidency will be delivered by a freshman Michigan senator who built an extensive national security background before entering politics less than a decade ago.

Elissa Slotkin will deliver the Democratic rebuttal to Trump just two months into her tenure in the U.S. Senate, having narrowly defeated Republican Mike Rogers to win an open battleground seat - despite Trump carrying the state . Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer , D-N.Y., praised Slotkin as "nothing short of a rising star in our party" when announcing her selection on Thursday.

The move comes as Democrats struggle to settle on a unified message against Trump, who has moved swiftly to implement his agenda in his second term while wielding vast executive power . Trump is set to outline his priorities for the year ahead during his address, which is scheduled for Tuesday at 9 p.m. Eastern time.

Slotkin is expected to focus on economic issues in her rebuttal amid Trump's Monday announcement that 25 tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada would begin Tuesday. The move has reignited fears of a North American trade war, which has already shown signs of driving up inflation and stalling growth .

Those close to Slotkin have suggested she plans to use the speech not just as a rebuttal to Trump, but as a chance to highlight Democrats' broader platform. Known for her more moderate stance, Slotkin has not hesitated in the past to critique her party's messaging when necessary.