House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) is emphasizing border security during President Trump's address to a joint session of Congress, showcasing a guest list that reflects this focus and other key Republican priorities. Among his invitees is Tom Homan, the former acting ICE director and Trump's newly appointed border czar.
Adding a personal dimension to the border security issue is Olivia Hayes, a widow from Louisiana whose husband was tragically killed by an illegal immigrant in a drunk driving incident. Johnson's selection of Hayes underscores the human impact of this pressing political concern.
Further demonstrating the breadth of his focus, Johnson has also invited Ben Dell, Chair of Commonwealth LNG. This invitation highlights the importance of energy policy for Republicans, particularly given the recent approval of the Commonwealth LNG project in Louisiana, a key development following the Biden administration's pause on new liquefied natural gas export permits.
In a gesture of solidarity with Israel, Johnson has included Noa Argamani on his guest list. Argamani was a hostage taken by Hamas during the October 2023 attacks. This invitation underscores the continued importance of the US-Israel relationship.
Rounding out the diverse group are conservative media figures Ben Shapiro and Matt Walsh of the Daily Wire. Johnson's inclusion of these prominent voices highlights the intersection of media and politics.
Johnson's prominent position on the dais behind President Trump during the address, traditionally held by the Speaker of the House, further emphasizes the significance of his chosen guests and their representation of key political issues.
