Johnson to display George Washington's gavel during State of the Union

House Speaker Mike Johnson will display the gavel George Washington used in 1793 to lay the cornerstone of the United States Capitol during President Donald Trump's State of the Union address on Tuesday evening.

The gavel will appear on the rostrum of the chamber and feature prominently during the address, the U.S. Capitol Historical Society confirmed.

“The U.S. Capitol Historical Society would like to thank Speaker Johnson and Potomac Lodge No. 5 for working with us to ensure the display of a historic treasure for this year’s historic Address,” society President and CEO Roswell Encina said in a statement.

“Complementing the State of the Union with George Washington’s Gavel beautifully reflects the importance of preserving and sharing the Capitol’s history; helping Americans connect with the people, places, and traditions that continue to shape our nation," Encina added. "A significant part of the Society’s mission is to bring Congress to the People. During America250, it is especially satisfying to have helped bring the People to Congress.” 

The display is part of a number of official activities meant to mark the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding this year.

Ben Whedon is the Chief Political Correspondent at Just the News. Follow him on X.