Whitmer has embraced expanding health care as one of her top priorities — one of the key issues Democrats used to take back the House in 2018, and she’s been vocal about how Democrats should move forward as the 2020 election approaches.

The party’s “strength is on the dinner-table issues,” she said before the June 2019 Democratic debates in Michigan, adding that candidates should “stay focused, I think, on issues that really improve people’s lives.”

Schumer and Pelosi echoed those sentiments in announcing the pick.

"Whether it's pledging to 'Fix the Damn Roads' or investing in climate solutions, Governor Whitmer's vision for the future is exactly what this country needs, and I'm thrilled she is giving the Democratic response,” Schumer said in a statement.

Freshman Rep. Veronica Escobar of Texas will deliver Democrats’ Spanish language response to Trump’s speech. A rising star in the caucus, Escobar was recently elected to serve in Democratic leadership and is a key voice for the party on immigration.

Escobar represents El Paso, a city shocked by the Aug. 3 mass shooting at a Walmart where 22 people were killed and 24 others were injured. The shooter posted a manifesto shortly before opening fire that warned of a “Hispanic invasion of Texas.”

After the massacre, Escobar, who has led tours on the border, publicly clashed with Trump and said the president “is not welcome” in her hometown while her community was healing.

“I look forward to addressing our nation on the progress Democrats have made for the people,” Escobar said in a statement. “Our diversity is our strength. Now more than ever, Democrats will continue to celebrate our diversity, defend our democracy, and word for a more equal and just nation.”

