House Speaker Mike Johnson displayed the marble George Washington Gavel during the State of the Union address, marking the first time the artifact will appeared at the annual event.
The announcement was made today by the Capitol history account, which said the gavel would be presented during the presidential address.
The account identified Johnson by name and described the object as a marble gavel associated with George Washington.
This will be the first time the marble gavel is used or displayed at the State of the Union.
The public announcement linked the speaker directly to the decision and confirmed that the display would take place during the nationally televised address.
The State of the Union is a constitutionally required speech in which the president outlines the administration’s priorities and agenda.
Traditionally, the event follows a set ceremonial format inside the House chamber.
By introducing the George Washington gavel into the proceedings, Johnson is adding a historical element to the high profile address.
The Capitol history account highlighted the first time nature of the display, drawing attention to the significance of the move.
The speech is expected to draw national and international attention as lawmakers gather in Washington.
