According to tradition, House Speaker John Boehner invited the president on December 13 to address a joint session of Congress.
[4][5] Obama promised to raise the minimum wage to $10.10 for federal contractors and to work with states, local governments, and private groups as well as Congress, to raise the minimum wage nationally, arguing better pay is needed to support the economy as well as the right thing to do.
[6] Additional featured proposals included:[7] The designated survivor is the member of the president's cabinet who does not attend the address in case of a catastrophic event, in order to maintain continuity of government.
[9] The decision was made by House Speaker John Boehner and Republican Senate Leader Mitch McConnell.
In addition, Utah Senator Mike Lee gave an address in response to Obama's speech on behalf of the Tea Party Express.