The annual State of the Union address by the President of the United States is one of the oldest rituals of the nation. Since President Truman’s address in 1947, the first televised message, the State of the Union has provided the president a rare opportunity to speak candidly to a Joint Session of Congress and the American people about the country’s strengths and weaknesses and to lay out future priorities for his administration. Over time, however, the SOTU address has shifted to one marked by self-congratulation and partisan pandering, leaving many uncomfortable topics wholly untouched. 

The Hill’s “A More Perfect Union?” will convene high-level, post-partisan thought leaders to take stock of the most critical challenges facing America and provide penetrating analysis, rich debate and inspiration addressing core concerns vital to the fundamental strength of our union. From an analysis of the future of American foreign policy to an examination of the state of free expression and civic spirit, we will aim to move beyond the political correctness and partisan rhetoric – of both parties – and engage high octane debate and discussion on the live, 3D journalism stage.

The President's annual State of the Union address gives the nation time to take stock of what has been accomplished and what still needs to be done.  It is a time for national introspection and a time to think aspirationally about what America's citizens want for the future. This year, preceding the President's address, The Hill will host a forum of consequential voices who will suggest ways in which a polarized country can, in places, come together in more common purpose. 

How will we transform a criminal justice system where too much of America's talent is unproductively locked away in prisons?

Are our education system and communities doing all they need to elevate the future's most important resource?

What is getting in the way of America's start-up and innovation culture?

How can we strengthen our civil society, work to diminish a growing economic inequality divide, resolve the deadlock on immigration reform, and help build pathways to opportunity for all regardless of where they live? 

We will explore these issues from a range of perspectives, emphasizing civil discourse and quality conversations in this time of national reflection and goal-setting.

The annual State of the Union address by the President of the United States is one of the oldest rituals of the nation. Since President Truman’s address in 1947, the first televised message, the State of the Union has provided the president a rare opportunity to speak candidly to a Joint Session of Congress and the American people about the country’s strengths and weaknesses and to lay out future priorities for his administration. Over time, however, the SOTU address has shifted to one marked by self-congratulation and partisan pandering, leaving many uncomfortable topics wholly untouched. 

Where do we stand on the fight for criminal justice and providing a second chance to the millions of incarcerated Americans? Are our education systems doing enough to keep the US on par with our global counterparts? How can we harness the power of new, revolutionary technologies and ensure all Americans are “plugged in” to the hyper-connected world of tomorrow? What is the future of US foreign policy – and how can we work with our allies to advocate for our positions on the global stage and promote democracy throughout the international community? 

The Hill’s “A More Perfect Union?” will convene high-level, post-partisan thought leaders to take stock of the most critical challenges facing America and provide penetrating analysis, rich debate and inspiration addressing core concerns vital to the fundamental strength of our union. From an analysis of the future of American foreign policy to an examination of the state of free expression and civic spirit, we will aim to move beyond the political correctness and partisan rhetoric – of both parties – and engage high octane debate and discussion on the live, 3D journalism stage.

*Additional Speakers To Be Announced*